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ANECDOTES o 



OF THE 



iLKEEICl.n EBTOLTTTIOUj 

IliLUSTRATIVE OF THE TALENTS AND VIRTUES 

OF THE 



HEROES AVTD PATRIOTS, 



WHO ACTED 



THE MOST CONSPICUOUS PARTS THEREIN. 



B V JLIiEXAM-I^ER G ARDZUT, 

Oj Let's Legion, 



SECOPTO SERIES. 



In their commendation I am fied, 
It is a banquet to me.>-/SAaA»peare. 



CHARLESTON: 

PRINTED BY A. E. MILLl^B, 
No. 4, Broad'Street. 



1828. 



/^'J-^ 



District of South-CaroUna, to wit • 

S0©00# BE IT REMEMBERED, That on the seventeenth day of 
Q Nov. Anno Domini, one thousand eight hundred and twenty- 
SEAL. eigln, and in the fifty-third year of the Independence of the 
Q Q Uniteu States of America, Major Alexander Garden, deposi- 

<#'0000# ted in this oflRce tba title of a hook, the right whereof he 
claims as Author and Proprietor, in the words following, to vvit: 

*' Anecdotes of the American Revolution, illustrative of the talents and vir- 
tues ot the Heroes and Patriots, who acted the most conspicuous parts there- 
in. By Alexander Garden, of Lee's Legion. Second Series. — In their com- 
mendation I am fed, it is a baimuet to nie." — Shakspeare. 

In conformity with the act of Congress of the United States, entitled 
« An act for thi^ Encouragement of Learning, by securing the copies of 
maps, charts, and books, to the authors and pioprietors of such copies, during 
the limes therein mentioned," and also to the act entitled ' An act supple- 
menta)y to an act, entitled, ' An act for the encouragement of learning, 
by securing th** copies of maps, charts, and books, to the authors tind pro- 
prietors of such copies, during the times therein mentioned,' and extending 
the benefits thereof to the arts of designing, t- ngraving and etching histori- 
cal and other prints." 

JAMES JERVEY, 
Cleric of the District of South-Carohn<h 



^?*^ 



[The dedication which follows was written sometime previously to the 
death of General Pinckney. As a brief expression of the Author's exalt- 
d opinion of his talents and virtues, he is anxious that it should be record- 
ed, and has in consequence suffered it to keep the place originally intended 
for it.] 



TO MAJOR-GEXERAL THOMAS PIXCKNEY. 

PRESIDENT GENERAL OF THE CINCINNATI. 

CHARLESTON, October r2th, 1828. 
Honoured General, 

The cheerfulness with ivh'ich you complied with rtiy request, 
in furnishing me with a correct and circumstantial account of 
the Siege of Savannah^ even when suffering under the agony 
of severe bodily affliction, demands the warmest expression of 
my gratitude. If my good wishes could avail, the speedy re- 
establishment of your health, would restore you a blessing to 
your friends — your family, and your country. That steadi- 
ness of principle, and cool intrepidity, that proved essentially 
serviceable in establishing the liberty and independence of your 
country, might, in all probability, be again required to support 
and direct our energies, against the encroachments of principles 
of Government, tvhich will prove equally destructive of our 
prosperity and happiness. Permit me to offer, as a testimony 
of my respect, and high veneration for your character, the 
Second Series of Revolutionary Anecdotes, now published, 
and to subscribe myself with the sincerest affection and grati- 
tude ^ 

Your friend and most obedient servant, 

ALEXANDER GARDEN, 

Of Lce'^s Legion. 



TO THE 

MEMBERS OF THE HONOURABLE 

THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES, 

AND OF 

THE HOUSE OF -RETTKHSHUTATl^ES, 

WHO BY THEIR UNCEASING EXERTIONS, AND IRRESISTIBLE ELO- 
QUENCE, CAUSED AN ACT FOR THE RELIEF OF CERTAIN OFFI- 
CERS AND SOLDIERS OF THE ARMY OF THE REVOLUTION, 
TO BE APPROVED BY CONGRESS, AND TO BECOME A 
LAW ON THE 15tH MAY, 1828, 

THIS COLLECTION OF 

REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES, 

IS RESPECTFULLY, 

AND GRATEFULLY DEDICATED 

BY THE AUTHOR, 



CONTENTS. 



FAOE. 

Introduction, ------- --•! 

Petition of the Americans in London in 1774 to the Throne, - 3 

Mecklenburg, North Carolina Declaration of Independence, - - 7 
Declaration of the Ladies of Mecklenburg and Rowan, - - - 10 

Embassy of Lieut. Colonel John Laurens to France, 1781, - - 12 

Account of the Siege of Savannah, by Gen. Thomas Pinckney, - 20 

Interesting Particulars relative to the condemnation and subsequent 

enlargement of Capt. Sir Charles Asgill, of the British Guards, - 28 
Patriotic Conduct of the American Ladies, exemplified in the heroic 

conduct of Mrs. Boden, 42 

Lydia Darrah, .-.----.-- ib 

Escape of Captain Plunkett, -.--. ...ib 

Sentiments of an American Woman, ------ 48 

Generosity of tfce Ladies of Philadelphia and Trenton, - - - 51 
General Washington's Letter of Thanks, ----- 53 

Patriotic conduct of Mrs Thompson, Mrs. Arthur Peronneau, Mrs. 
Bratton, Miss Newman, Mrs. Gannet of Sharon, Mrs. Street of 
Salisbury, North-Carolina, .-..--- 54 

Poetic Address to the Ladies, from a Philadelphia paper, - - - 59 
Patriots in the Civil Line — Arthur Middleton, Thos. Heyward, Thos. 

Bee, Richard Hutson, - -60 

American Officers, Military and Naval — Gen. Washington — Distin- 
guished Pennsylvania Officers — General Wm. Irvine, - - 70 
Allen M'Lean, Delaware, ---------76 

General Andrew Pickens, -------- 83 

Boyd's Defeat at Kettle Creek, •--.-.- - 86 

Colonel Thomas E. Howard, Maryland, 87 

IMaval Officers — Joshua Barney, -------91 

Lieut. John Mayrant, ------ ^ r 103 



Vlll. CONTENTS. 

British OflScers — Lieut. Colonel Maitland ; David Campbell, 63d Re- 
giment; the M'Kenzies; Mr. James Simpson; Captain M'Mahon, 

General Sir William Howe; Lord Rawdon, . . . - 108 

Peter Johnson and Soldiers of the Legion; Gillies, - - - 117 

Lieut. Colonel Lee, 121 

Peter Johnston ; Interview with Andrew Mannering — with Dennis 

Hampton. -..----.-- 122 

Joshua Davison, ----------- 126 

Robert Harvey, 128 

Sergeant Cusack, ---------- 129 

Captain Eggleston, »---" l^^ 

Captain Lindsay; Dr. Matthew Irvine, 134 

Particular account of Colonel Buford's Defeat, . - - - 135 

Ralph Izard, sen. --:. 140 

Particulars relative to the death of Mr. John Ingles, . - - 145 
General Robert Howe's Narrative relative to an American Officer, - 148 
Narrative respecting an unfortunate Officer; - , - . 150 
Spirit of Enterprize — Col, White, of the Georgia Line, King's Moun- 
tain ; Colonel Meig's, Colonel Barton, - - - - 152 

Impositions of Foreigners, employed by the United States, - - 159 

Ovum Repubiicae, the Congress of 1765, ------ 164 

Miscellaneous Anecdotea — Joe Bettys, ------ 167 

General Stuart, formerly of Washington's Horse, - . - - 171 
Brief Statement of the sanguinary mode of Warfare between Whig 

and Tory in South-Carolina, - 172 

Francis M'Donnel, 177 

The Mischeanza, 178 

Major M'Donnough, - 180 

Interesting Communication relative to the Family of Gen. La Fayette, 182 

Anecdote of La Fayette, .- [184 

Interview with an Old Soldier, and with Red Jacket, - - - "185 
Opinion of the British General O'Hara, with respect to the Soldiers 

of America, :--,- 186 

Colonel Isaac Hayne, -----.-.- 187 

Duelling, 188 

Celebration of the Birth-day of the Dauphin of France, - - - 189 

Noble-minded German, --------- 190 

Battle at Port Royal Island ; Lieut. Vleland, - - - - 192 

Colonel Wasson, ...-.-_-.- 193 

Rifle-Shooting, 194 

Bolman, ------- 195 

Lieut. Colonel Campbell, killed at Eutaw ; Mob at Philadelphia, • 196 



CONTENTS. ix. 

igecret Expedition, -..-.--... jgg 

Enlistiuents, --.^- 199 

Captain Littell, New-Jersey, - 201 

Mrs. Nelson, 203 

Wm. Carson, -------«-.. 204 

Ungenerous Conduct of Gen. Pigott towards certain American Offi- 
cers, prisoners, 205 

General Isaac Huger, .--. 206 

Fortunate Escape of Dr. Wm. Read, superintending the Military Hos- 
pital, on the Retreat of the Army into Virginia, - - - 207 
Peter Francisco, ------.---. 209 

M'Elroth, - - - 210 

Scott, of Jersey, ^ . ^ ^ 211 

Lieut. Reese Bowen ; Captain Adam Wallace, - . . . 212 

Different Modes of Quelling Rebellion, - - . - ^ _ 213 

Benjamin Elliott, _ - . 214 

Mrs. Caldwell, - - ,. 215 

Peter Robeson ; Godfrey, ..----.._ 217 

Knuckles, ------.,----.- 218 

Taking the Oath of Allegiance ; Barry and Sweeny, ... 219 

Indian Anecdote, 220 

A more particular Explanation of a transaction recorded in my first Se- 
ries of Anecdotes, 222 

Imputation of Ingratitude, incorrectly fixed on Republics, - - 223 

Laudable instance of Independent Spirit, 224 

Letter from Cooper, 225 

General Greene ; Prisoners confined in the Prison-Ships, - - - 228 
Brief Account of the Celebration of the Victory of New-Orleans, ob- 
tained over the invading Army of Great Britain, Jan. 8th, 1815, 231 

Paulus, a monody, .•_. 236 

Conclusion, „ 239 

Epigramatic Effusions, 240 



TO SUBSCRIBERS. 

BIF The Subscription Lists have been handed in so slowly, that it 
might appear invidious to print one that would be imperfect. Upward* 
of seven hundred names are in possession, but many more are expected 
from parts of the country where it is probable this work will be most in 
circulation. Yet, should they speedily arrive, they shall be immediately 
published. 



ERRATA. 

Pa«e 21— line 32, before "that" insert '• in'* 

37 — line 6, for '* which," read " what" 

43 — line 34, for '' have" read "had" 

51 — line US, for " are supported" read "we supported*' 

56 — line Vo, for "Mrs." read " Mr. Trapier" 

59 — line 9, for "affection" read "affliction" 

78 — line 11, insert "and Sandy Hook," 

85 — line i^, omit the first "and" 
10-2— line 26, for "result" read " insult" 
lliS—line 28, for "Tomanno" read "Torrianno" 
118 — line 8, omit "you" 
120 — line 26. for "received" read "renewed" 
16?^ine 17, for "Glaaback" read " Glaaback." 
169 — line 12, for " uneffectual" read " ineifectual" 
177 — line 6, for "shades" read "shapes" 
184— line 6, for "thousand" "hundred" 
187— line 1, for "deny" read "admit" 
198— line 16, for "Flimnah" read "Fhiranah" 
200— line 26, for "One" read "On a Soldier's namt.*' 
212— line 13, insert " to" after " take" 
239 — line 19, for "favourable" read ''favourite" 



ZZffTRODVCTZOBr. 



—oo©— 



*^ The evil that men do, lives after thena, 

The good is oft interred with their bones." — Shakspeare, 

I SHOULD consider it an indelible reproach on my 
country, were the recollections of the valorous achieve- 
ments of her Heroes, and the enthusiastic attachment of 
her patriotic sons to her honour and interests, to perish 
with them. My strenuous efforts have been, and shall 
be exerted to the end of my existence, to keep them alive 
by giving them publicity, and to recommend them to our 
youthful candidates for fame, as the fittest models for 
imitation. The mite of applause, that from personal 
feeling, I am inclined to offer, is indeed small, but it is 
tend^ued with such admiration, and flows with such 
warmth from my breast, that I trust it will not only meet 
with favour from the public, but commendation also. 



TLBVOUJTIOTiARY AKTEOBOTES. 



PETITION OF THE AMERICANS IN LONDON TO 
THE THRONE. 

J. HE following document is extremely interesting and ought 
to be preserved. It affords strong evidence of the attachment 
of the natives of America from every part of the continent, 
to their sovereign, and a confidence in his justice and mag- 
nanimity unbounded, though fatally incorrect. The petition, 
which is firm without servihty, was, in Carolina, so much ap- 
proved, that the signers of it were greeted on their return 
home with a merry peel of bells, and the loud acclamations of 
their countrymen. 

It gives me great pleasure to state that the sixteen last 
named gentlemen were Carolinians, and, that with a single 
exception, they remained steady in their principles, and ac- 
tive in the service of their country, throughout the whole of 
the Revolutionary war. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



FROM THE BOSTON CHRONICLE. 

Petition of the native Americans residing in London^ to His' 
Britannic Majesty, in 1774. 

Messrs. Editors : — 

Having recently been employed in searching for old records, 
I met with a manuscript copy of the following petition of a 
number of native Americans, who were then in London, to his 
Britannic Majesty, in the year 1774. If you think it suffi- 
eiently interesting to publish, you are at liberty to do it.— 
Among the number of signers is the late Arthur Lee, of Virgi- 
nia, a gentleman whose life and character seem to be but little 
known at the present day, although he was one of the firmest 
patriots of the Revolution, and his services, though not conspi- 
cuous, yet were eminently beneficial to the cause he had 
espoused. I was much gratified to observe, that this gentle- 
man was not forgotten, on a late pubhc occasion, and should 
be more pleased if the present era of good feelings should 
lead to the bringing forward of those eminent patriots, whose 
virtues are buried in obscurity. 

It will be remembered, that the bills there alluded to are 
the last of the series of those acts of the British Parliament 
which produced a crisis, and were the immediate cause of 
the war of the Revolution ; 

To the Kingh Most Excellent Majesty : — 

The Petition of several natives of America, most humbly 
sheweth : — 

That your petitioners, being your Majesty's most faithful 
subjects, are obliged to implore your gracious interposition, to ; 
protect them in the enjoyment of those privileges which are 
the right of all your people. . \ 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 5 

Your Majesty's petitioners have already seen, with unspeak- 
able grief, their earnest prayers rejected, and heavy penalties 
inflicted, even on the innocent among their countrymen, to 
the subversion of every principle of justice, without their being- 
heard. By this alarming procedure all property was rendered 
insecure ; and they now see, in two bills (for altering the go- 
vernment of the Massachusetts Bay, and the impartial admini- 
stration of justice there) the intended subversion of the two 
other grand objects of civil society and constitutional protec- 
tion, to wit, liberty and life. 

Your petitioners most humbly represent to your Majesty, 
that to destroy or assume their chartered rights, without a 
full and fair hearing, with legal proof of forfeiture, and the 
abrogating of their most valuable laws, which had duly re- 
ceived the solemn confirmation of your Majesty's royal 
predecessors, and were thence deemed unchangeable without 
the consent of the people, is such a proceeding as renders the 
enjoyment of every privilege they possess totally uncertain and 
precarious. That an exemption of the soldiery from being 
tried in the Massachusetts Bay for murder, or other felony 
committed upon your Majesty's subjects there, is such an 
encouragement to licentiousness and incentive to outrasfe, as 
must subject your Majesty's liege people to continued dan- 
ger. 

Your petitioners and their countrymen have been ever 
most zealously attached to your Majesty's person and family. 
It is therefore with inexpressible affliction that they see an at- 
tempt, in these proceedings against them, to change the prin- 
ciple of obedience to government, from the love of the subject 
towards their sovereign, founded on the opinion fhis wisdom, 
justice and benevolence, into the dread of absolute power, 
and laws of extreme rigour, insupportable to a free people. 

Should the bills above-mentioned receive your royal sanc= 
lion, your Majesty's faithful subjects will be overwhelmed with 
grief and despair. 



6 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



It is therefore our most earnest prayer that your Majesty vvilf 
be graciously pleased to suspend your royal assent to the said 
bill. 

And your petitioners, &c. 



Stephen Sayre, 
W illiam Lee, 
Arthur Lee, 
Edmund Jenings, 
Joshua Johnson, 
Daniel Bowley, 
Benjamin Franklin, 
Thomas Busten, 
Edward Bancroft, 
Thomas Bromfield, 
John Boylston, 
John Ellis, 
John Williams, 
John Alloyne, 
Ralph Izard^ 



William H. Gibbs, 
Wilham Blake, 
Isaac Motte, 
Henry Laurens, 
Thomas Pinckney, 
John F. Gnmke, 
Jacob Read, 
Philip Neyle, 
Edward Fenwicke, 
Edward Fenwicke, jun. 
John Peronneau, 
William Middleton, 
William Middleton, jun. 
Ralph Izard, jun. 
William Heyward. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



MECKLENBURG (N. C.) DECLARATION OF INDE- 
PENDENCE. 

It is a compliment richly due to our sister State of North- 
Carolina, to mention an important fact, which, however re- 
dounding to her credit, is even at this period but little known 
to the citizens generally of the United States. 

The town of Boston has been, with great propriety, styled 
"the Cradle of the Revolution." The opposition of its inha- 
bitants to the encroachments of Great Britain first roused the 
Colonists to a just sense of the injuries meditated against their 
liberties, and fixed their resolution to repel force by force.-— 
Yet it will forever redound to the honour of North-Carolina, 
that it was among her people that the bold idea of Indepen- 
dence was first conceived and proclaimed to the world. The 
tyrannical measures pursued by the officers of the Crown : the 
iniquities practised by those of the courts of justice, pro- 
duced a general spirit of discontent as early as the year 
1768. But it was in Mecklenburg County that a zealous op- 
position to the pretensions of the mother country, and a deter- 
mination to resist the aggressions of power was first decidedly 
manifested. The leading men held meetings to ascertain the 
sense of the people, and to confirm them in their opposition to 
the claim of Parliament to impose taxes, and regulate the in- 
ternal policy of the Colony. The Post Commandant of the 
county was, on one occasion, directed to issue orders to <'ach 
captain of the militia, to elect two delegates from his company, 
to meet in general committee at Charlotte, the better to ndopt 
such measures as should seem best calculated to promote the 
common cause, of defenthng the right of the Colony, ami of 
aidmg their brethren in Massachusetts. The order was issued 



8 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

and delegates elected, who met at Charlotte on the 19th of 
Mav, 1775. On that day, the first intellig-eace of the com- 
mencement of hostilities at Lexington, was received by the 
committee. Its effect was decisive. The universal cry was, 
" Let us be independent — ler us declare our independence, 
and defend it with our lives and fortunes." Resolutions were 
immediately drawn up and adopted. Dr. Brevard, who 
framed them, had the honour to report them also — they were 
to this effect : — 

" Resolved, That whoever directly or indirectly abets, or in 
any way, form, or manner, countenances the invasion of our 
rights, as attempted by the Parliament of Great Britain, is an 
enemy to his country, to America, and to the Rights of 
Man. 

Resolved, That we, the citizens of Mecklenburg County, 
do hereby dissolve the political bonds which have connected 
us with the Mother Country, and absolve ourselves from all 
allegiance to the British Crown, abjuring all political connex- 
ion with a nation that has wantonly trampled on our rights 
and liberties, and inhumanly shed the blood of Americans at 
Lexington. 

Resolved, That we do hereby declare ourselves a free and 
independent people, that we are of right and ought to be a 
sovereign and self-governing people, under the power of God 
a^id the General Congress, to the maintenance of which in- 
dependence we solemnly pledge to each other our mutual 
co-operation — our lives — our fortunes — and our sacred 
honours. 

Resolved, That we do hereby ordain, and adopt, as rules of 
conduct, all and each of our former laws, and the Crown of 
Great Britain cannot be considered, hereafter, as holding any 
rights, privileges or immunities among us. 

Resolffd, That all officers, both civil and military, in this 
county, be entitled to exercise the same powers and authorities 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 9 

as heretofore — that every member of tliis delegation shall 
henceforth be a civil officer, and exercise the powers of a Jus- 
tice of the Peace, issue process, hear and determine controver- 
sies, according- to law, preserve peace, union and harmony in 
the county, and use every exertion to spread the love of liberty 
and of country, until a more general and better organized sys- 
tem of government be established. 

Resolved^ That a copy of these Resolutions be transmitted 
by express to the President of the Continental Congress, as- 
sembled at Philadelpliia, to be laid before that body." 

I think it scarcely possible to read these Resolutions, with- 
out perceiving how strong the similarity of sentiment express- 
ed in the Declaration of Independence, introduced by Mr. 
Jefferson, at an after period into Congress. Even the ex- 
pressions are, in many instances, literally the same, in so 
much as to give conviction, that the Mecklenburg Resolutions 
were constantly in view, when the Committee of Congress 
drew that momentous document, which we consider as the 
palladium of our lives and liberties. 

This early manifestation of patriotic enthusiasm, never 
knew diminution ; a steadiness of principle characterized the 
inhabitants of Mecklenburg county throughout the whole war. 
It was there that supplies were, with the greatest liberality, be- 
stowed on the soldiers fighting the battles of their country, 
that the hospitals were best protected, and comforts afforded 
the sick. It was there that the enemy met with constant and 
decided opposition, and that they were so incessantly harrass- 
ed at every turn, and in every situation which tliey occupied, 
that Charlotte was emphatically styled by them — " the Hor^ 
nets' Neat.'" 



Of the zeal of the inhabitants in the vicinity of Charlotte 
and Salisbury, in favour of the cause of their country, my 



lO REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

friend, Dr. William Read, has recently given me a striking 
proof. After the battle of the Cowpens, ^reat industry was 
used by Lord Cornwallis to retake the captured prisojiers, he 
was unwearied in pursuit, and it was imagined with conside- 
rable prospect of success. Under these circumstances, Gene- 
ral Green directed Dr. Read to repair, with all expedition, to 
the residence of General Lock, near Salisbury, and tell him, 
verbally, that immediate exertion was necessary, and that he 
must raise, by the the next day, one thousand men, to cover 
the retreat of Major Hyrne, to whose charge the prisoners 
were committed. Arrived at his house. Dr. Read, asked if 
the General was visible, " he is at plough in his field," was 
the reply. " In what direction" said the Doctor. " This 
path," said a bystander, *' will carry you to him." But a 
short distance was passed over, when Dr. Read met an old 
man on a sorry tacky, with a plough before him, to whom he 
said, " tell me, friend, where I can find General Lock."— 
•' Come with me," was the reply, *' and I will carry you to 
him." The route was now retrograde, and led towards the 
house; when the Doctor arrived there, believing that he was 
trifled with, he said in anger, " but where is the General." 
" You shall see him immediately," was the answer. The old 
man then retired into a chamber, but returned instantaneously 
in a full suit of regimentals and large cocked hat, exclaimmg, 
*' / am General Lock — your business with me friend.''^ Dr. 
Read immediately delivered his message, when the old man 
replied, " it shall be done !" and immediately sending off his 
servants with orders to his officers to summon their men for 
duty, actually joined Hyrne the next morning, (who had five 
hundred men of the 71st British regiment in charge) with a 
corps of one thousand mounted riflemen. 



Nor were the ladies of Mecklenburg, in any degree, inferior 
in enthusiasm to the male population. I find in the South- 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 11 

Carolina and American General Gazette, from the 2d to the 
9th of February, the following paragraph: — 

" The young ladies, of the best families, in Mecklenburg 
County, North-Carolina, have entered into a voluntary asso- 
ciation that they will not receive the addresses of any young 
gentlemen of that place, except the brave volunteers who 
served in the expedition to South- Carolina, and assisted in 
subduing the Scovolite insurgents. The ladies being of 
opinion that such persons as stay lazily basking at home, when 
the important calls of the country demand their military service 
abroad, must certainly be destitute of that nobleness of senti- 
ment, that brave, manly spirit, which would qualify them to 
be the defenders and guardians of the fair sex. 

The Ladies of thf adj ictnt County of Rownn, have desired 
the plan of a similar association, to be drawn up and prepared 
for signatures." 



12 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



EMBASSY OF LIEUT. COL. LAURENS TO FRANCE, 

L\ 1781. 

I do not think that I can follow up the interesting docu- 
ment immediately preceding, in a more appropriate manner, 
or at^brd a hig;her treat to my readers, than by giving a parti-, 
cul.ir account of the spirited conduct of Lieut. Colonel Lau- 
rens, when sent by Congress as a Special Minister to France, 
in the year 1781. Of its authenticity there can be no doubt. 
It was received by me in 1822, from my friend Major Wm. 
Jackson, of Philadelphia, who had been appointed at the 
request of the Lieutenant Colonel, Secretary of the Mission. 
It is due to Maj. Jackson, to give the statement in his own 
interesting and appropriate language. 

** In the sixth year of the war of Independence, the events 
of the campaign had been very adverse to the American arms, 
and at the close of 1780, the resources of the United States 
were in extreme depression. General Lincoln, who com- 
manded in the Southf^rn Department, after a brave and pro- 
tracted defence of Charleston, against the army and fleet 
under Sir Henry Chnton and Admiral Arbuthnot, was com- 
pelled to capitulate, and to surrender his gallant garrison, pri- 
soners of war. By this success, and the subsequent defeat of 
General Gates at Camden, the British forces gained a control 
in the South, which threatened the most extensive and disas- 
trous consequences. The main army, under General Wash- 
ington, reduced by detachments to the Southern States, 
was badly Clothed, irregularly provisioned, and without pay — 
the magazines were empty, the treasury exhausted, and the 
public credit of no avail. In this alarming crisis of the na- 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 13 

tional affairs, General Washington convened a council of his 
most confidential officers — a faithful and minute representa- 
tion was submitted to Congress ; and, it was respectfully 
suggested, as the most immediate mean of relief, that a Spe- 
cial Minister sliould be sent to France, to solicit a loan of 
money, and supplies of clothing and military stores, with a re- 
quest that a naval superiority might rendezvous on the Ameri- 
can coast at an appointed time, to enable the Commander- 
in-chief to undertake offensive operations against the dispersed 
posts of the enemy. 

Congress acceded to the opinions of this interesting com- 
munication, and referred the nomination of the Minister to 
General W ishington, whose selection of the " all-accomplished 
Laurens," justified the confidence of government, and secured 
the successful completion of this important trust. As Aid-de- 
Camp to General Washingtoji, Colonel Laurens was fully 
informed of every circumstance that could give furtherance to 
the negotiation ; and, writing and speaking the French lan- 
guage with classical purity, he possessed, in an eminent de- 
gree, the power of illustrating all its objects. By the partiali- 
ty of his gallant friend, the writer of this memoir was appointed 
Secretary of the Mission. 

On the 9th of February, 1781, we sailed from Boston in 
the frigate Alliance, Captain Barry, and arrived at L'Orient 
in twenty days. Pursuing, without delay, his route to Paris, 
Colonel Laurens met the Mareschal de Castries, Minister of 
Marine, then on a visit to the Sea-Ports, at Hennebond, and 
having announced himself to the Mareschal, he very politely 
directed relays of horses to expedite our journey. On his 
arrival at Paris, Colonel Laurens entered on his mission with 
every advantage that distinction of character, ardent zeal of 
disposition, and consummate ability, to demonstrate the reci- 
procal interest of America and France in its successful accom- 
pliBhmenf:, could confer. Having delivered his credentials, 
and been graciously received at Court, memorials, explanatory 

2 



14 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 'j 

of all the views and objects of his appointment, were presented 
to the Count de Vergennes, Minister of Foreign Relations, 
and they were repeated and enforced by personal intercourse 
from the 6th of March to the 2d of May, when Colonel Lau- 
rens conceived, from the protracted state of the negotiation, 
that it was the policy of the Cabinet of France, by delaying 
the aid, which he solicited, to exhaust the power and resources 
of Britain and America, and to render both subservient to her 

views. 

Under this impression, and abehef that this was rather the 
policy of the Ministers than of the Riiig, Colonel Laurens de- 
cided to prepare a memorial, which should condense all the 
essential points that had been heretofore stated, and which he 
determined to place in the King's own hand. This memorial, 
embracing a luminous statement of facts, with clear deductions 
from them, was accordingly prepared — and, on the morning 
of the day, when it was to be presented, we went to the Cabi- 
net of the Count de Vergennes, where we found Dr. Frankhn 
and the Count. 

Colonel Laurens, introducing the subject of his mission 
with his usual animation, was urging the necessity of a com- 
pliance with his solicitation, when the Count de Vergennes, in 
a manner at once smiling and sarcastic, observed — " Colonel 
Laurens, you are so recently from the Head Quarters of the 
American Army, that you forget you are no longer delivering 
the orders of the Commander-in-chief ; but that you are ad- 
dressing the Minister of a Monarch, who has every disposition 
to favour your country." Colonel Laurens, rising from his 
chair with some emotion, stepped to the opposite side of the 
room, and returning to the Count, expressed himself in nearly 
the following words — " Favour, Sir ! the respect which I owe 
lany country will not admit the term — say that the aid is mu- 
tual, and I cheerfully subscribe to the obligation — But, as the 
last argument I sliall use with your Excellency; the sword 
which I now wear in defence of France as well ns my owft 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 15 

country, unless the succour I solicit is immediately accorded, 
I may be compelled, within a short time, to draw against 
France, as a British subject." 

The force of this brief, but appropriate remonstrance, 
was keenly felt by the first diplomatist of Europe, and some 
lime elapsed before the Count de Vergennes was sufficiently 
collected to say — " J/«is iwila le bon Monsieur Franklin, qui 
est tres content de noiis.^^ — " No oue," replied Colonel Lau- 
rens, *' respects that venerable gentleman more than I do ; — 
but, to repeat Your Excellency's observation, I am so recently 
from the Head Quarters of the American army, that many 
circumstances of the highest interest are familiar to me that 
are yet unknown to that worthy man. T must now inform 
Your Excellency, that my next memorial will be presented 
to His Majesty, in person. I have the honour to salute you 
respectfully," — and left the room. On reaching the door, 
Colonel Laurens asked my opinion of what had passed. I 
told him it exceeded all I had imagined of the interview. 
** No matter," said he " let us go to the inn and dress for 
Court, where the act must finish." [The Court was at this 
time in mourning for the Empress Queen, Maria Theresa, 
the Queen's mother — but we were indulged in wearing our 
uniform, with crapes on our arms and swords.] 

*' The Special Minister of the United States of America" 
was announced, and we entered the audience apartment, 
where the King was standing in the centre of a semi-circle, 
having the old Count Maurepas on his right, and the Count de 
Vergennes on his left. — Having bowed to His Majesty, Col. 
Laurens, instead of passing among the foreign ministers, 
advanced towards the King, and saluted him a second time, 
and, approaching nearer to him, presented the memorial, 
which was received under some embarrassment — for, although, 
as being an accredited Minister, it could not be refused, the 
innovation on the forms of the Court, was altogether unexpect- 
ed, and the Hing passed the paper across the Count de Vergen-^ 



16 iJtEVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

lies to the Marquis de Se^ur, the Minister of War, who put 
it in his pocket. The looks of all present marked thtir 
surprise. When the ceremonial of the Levee was over, we 
went to the inn, where we dined, — and on our return to Paris, 
in going by Dr. Franklin's house at Passy, I asked Colonel 
Laurens if he would not stop and see the Doctor — he said 
he would see no one until he knew the result of that day's pro- 
ceeding. 

The next morning, while at breakfast, he received the fol- 
lowing note : — 

" Mr. Necker presents his compliments to Colonel Laurens, 
and requests the honour of an interview at twelve o'clock." — 
Here is something, said Colonel Laurens, let us dress and 
pay our respects to Madame Necker : — 

On entering the drawing-room we found Mr. and Mrs. 
Necker, and the late Madame de Stael, at that time a young 
lady about thirteen years old. The ladies having retired, Mr. 
Necker said to Colonel Laurens, " I have the honour to in- 
form you, by instruction of His Majesty, that the loan which 
you solicit in your memorial of yesterday is accorded, the 
fifteen hundred thousand livres, which you request may be 
sent to Major Jackson at Amsterdam, for the purchase of mili- 
tary stores, will be forwarded from Brussels — and any other 
accommodation, connected with my department, will be 
cheerfully granted." 

On the next day a similar interview with Colonel Laurens 
was requested by the Mareschal de Castries, who said " I am 
directed by His Majesty, to inform you that the Count de 
Grasse, who is now at Brest with twenty-five ships of the 
line, bound to the West-Indies, will, conformably to the re- 
quest in your memorial of yesterday, rendezvous on the Ame- 
rican coast, at the time General Washington shall point out. 
The howitzers, which you want, cannot be furnished from the 
iiiarine arsenal, as we have none of that calibre ; but Major 
Jaclison will be able to procure them in Holland. — The fri- 



/ 

REVOLUTfONARY ANECDOTES. 17 

gate Resolue will cany you to America with such part of the, 
money as you may wish to take with you — any other facility 
within my department will be accorded." 

Thus was this important negotiation, which was certainly 
the hinge on which the success of the Revolution then turned 
brought to a happy close, by the wisdom and decision of a 
youth, who had not then attained his twenty-eighth year — but 
whose matured mind and heroic spirit, admitted no other rule 
of official conduct, than the honour and interest of his beloved 
country. 

Having returned from the successful accomplishment of 
his important mission, in which he had negotiated the ren- 
dezvous and co-o}>eration of the French fleet on the American 
coast. Col. Laurens resumed his military functions, and was 
eminently distinguished at the siege of Yorktown, where, 
leading to the assault of one of the British redoubts, he saved 
the life of the officer, who commanded it, and made him his 
prisoner. 

Being appointed Commissioner for the capitulation on the 
part of General Washington, he met Colonel Ross,of theBritish 
army, Aid-de-camp to liord Cornwallis, and Commissioner on 
behalf of the garrison. Having placed the terms on which a 
capitulation would be granted before Colonel Ross, that gen- 
tleman observed — " This is a harsh article.'''^ — Which article ? 
said Colonel Laurens — 

" The Troops shall march out with colours cased, and 
drums beating a British or a German march." 

"Yes, Sir," replied Colonel L., with some sangfroid, " it is a 
harsh article." 

"Then, Col. Laurens, if that is your opinion, why is it here 1" 
" Your question, Col. Ross, compells an observation, which I 
would have suppressed. — You seem to forget. Sir, that I was 
a capitulant at Charleston— where Gen. Lincoln, after a bravf 



18 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTKS. 

defence of six weeks' open trenches, by a very inconsiderable 
garrison, against the British army and fleet, under Sir 
Henry Chnton and Admjral Arbuthnot, and when your hues of 
approach were within pistol-shot of our field works,was refused 
any other terms for his gallant garrison, than marching out 
with colours cased, and drums yio^beating a British or a German 
march." — "But," rejoined Col. Ross, "my Lord CornwalUs did 
not command at Charleston." "There, Sir," said Col. Laurens, 
*' you extort another declaration. It is not the individual that is 
here considered — it is the Nation. This remains an article or I 
oease to be a Commissioner." 

The result was conformed to this just retribution. The 
British army marched out with colours cased, and drums 
beating a British or a German march. The march they 
chose was — " The world turned up side down," 

The war in the North being closed by the capture of this 
army. Colonel Laurens, impelled by ardent patriotism, hasten- 
ed to the Southern army, where fresh laurels awaited his gal- 
lant exertions, and where his country was to witness his devo- 
tion, even to death, in her cause. 

The writer of the present article, who was then Assistant 
Secretary at War, received his last letter, in which he says — 
** I am writing to you from a sick bed ; but I have just heard 
that Gen. Greene has ordered a detachment to intercept a 
party of the Biitish. I shall ask the command, and, if re- 
fused, I go as a volunteer." 

Gen. Greene, anxious for the recovery of his health, wosdd 
have declined the request of Col. Laurens ; but his determi- 
nation to go as a volunteer, decided him to grant it. 

It would appear, that by unavoidable accident, some troops 
detached to the support of the party, did not reach Combahee 
in time to prevent an attack by a very superior force — ami in 
the charge he was mortally wounded and f^^li from his horse": 
his party cutting their way through the enemy. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 19 

Such was the close, while yet in its bloom, of his illustrious 
life, through which he had exhibited such proofs of devoted pa- 
triotism, heroic valour, and splendid talents, as would have 
secured to him the first honours of his country, as they 
have impressed the deepest regret for his loss, and the he^ut* 
&lt tribute of gratitude to his meniory. 



20 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



SIEGE OF SAVANNAH. 

Furnished hy an Officer engaged in the Attack.* 

Early in Sept. 1779, the Amazon French fris^ate appeared 
off Charleston bar ; the Viscoinpte de Fontanges, Adjutant 
General to the army under Count D'Estaign, landed and con- 
ferred with Gen. Lincoln, when an attack upon the British force 
in Savannah, by the combined French army, said to consist 
of three thousand men, and one thousand American troops to be 
furnished by General Lincoln, was agreed upon. By order of 
General Lincoln, Colonel Cambray of the Engineers, Captain 
Gadsden and myself, embarked on board the Amazon, then 
commanded by the celebrated circumnavigator La Perouse. In 
a day or two after we left Charleston, we joined the French fleet, 
co»)sisting of twenty ships of the line, and several frigates, when 
we went on board the Languedoc, to be under the immediate 
command of Count D'Estaign, who had desired that some 
American officers, acquainted with the Trench language, might 
be sent to him. In passing before Beaufort, D'Estaign was ap- 
prised that Colonel Maitland, with a considerable part of the 
British force, was stationed at that place, and was aware of the 
advantages which would result from preventing his junction 
with the main body at Savannah. Our progress was delayed 
some hours off the bar ; and it was reported that some of the 
smaller vessc Is were preparing to enter, but the plan was relin- 
quif^hed because the pilots furnished from Charleston refused 
to undertake to carry them in. This was the first great error of 
this short, but disastrous campaign. The whole British regular 

"^ Major Pinckney. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 21 

force amounted only to two thousand five hundred men, of 
which Maitland commanded eight hundred at Beaufort ; had 
these been prevented from joining Prevost at Savannah, it is 
probable the latter would have capitulated, or certainly could 
not have made the same formidable resistance. I know, how- 
ever, from the acknowledgement of the principal pilot, that he 
did refuse to carry in the vessels. 

The fleet then proceeded off Savannah bar, where in- 
formation being received that the British had a company 
of regulars posted on Tybee Island, D'Estaign d<^termined to 
attack them. Accordingly, he landed with the officers of his 
stafi", the three Americans, and his body-guaid, composed of a 
Subaltern's command of about twenty marines ; we marched 
near a half mile in the direction of the fort, when D'Estaign, 
looking back and seeing only his slender escort, asked the Adju- 
tant General, where were the troops to reduce the British post ? 
M, de Fontang-es answered that he had received no directions to 
order any troops for the occasion. The General appeared much 
irritated, replying that he had informed him of the object he had 
in view, and that it was his duty to have brought with him the 
number of troops necessary for the occasion. While this was 
passing, a couple of Negroes came by, who being interrogatedj 
informed that the post had been withdrawn early that morning. 
This extraordinary occurrence is mentioned to show something 
of the manner of proceeding of the commander-in-chief of the 
expedition, and of the footing on which he stood with the offi- 
cers under his command. 

The fleet then proceeded off Asseeba Sound, where about 
eighteen hundred troops were embarked in the boats of 
the fleet, and proceeded at night-fall twelve miles up the 
river to Beauiieu. The order for landing, directed that the 
boats should follow, as expeditiously as they could, (that in 
which the General embarked, a lantern was hoisted,) 
and Oil rt-aching the landing, tiie troops were to iThige lh{ tn- 
selves next to those whom they would find cUawn up, witnout 



h 



22 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

any regard to corps. It was fortunate for the General, whose 
, boat being hghter than the rest <Konsiderably outrowed them, 
that a British post with two field pieces had been withdrawn 
the preceeding day, or the boats which arrived first, must 
have been greatly annoyed ; the blulf of Beaulieu commandiiig 
a long reach of the river up which they passed. The landing 
with such a body, would probably have been eftected, but 
certainly not without considerable loss. No time was lost after 
the landing of the troops, in marching to Savannah ; tit appear- 
ing to be the desire of the General to arrive there before the 
day appointed for the rendezvous with General Lincoln. 

The morning after the army encamped, within a short 
distance of Savannah, a Flag of Truce was sent in, requu- 
ing the surrender of the post and garrison, to the Army of 
His Most Christian Majesty. A delay of twenty-four hours fo^ 
the answer, was required and granted ; before their expiration, 
Maitland brought in his detachment, and the demaiid of capi- 
tulation was rejected. 

General Lincoln, with the x'V.merican army, arrived neaf 
Savannah at the time agreed upon, which was the 17th 
September, and on the 23d, the two armies formed a junc- 
tion, and encamped together within about a mile and a half of 
the enemy's lines, the French on the right. Here I joined m^ 
Regiment, which being the first of South-Carolina, was en- 
<;amped on the extreme left of the line. 

It appeared now to be the determination of the Gene- 
rals, to endeavour to carry the post by regular approaches ; 
for the enemy's line of defence, which was scarcely begun 
when D'Estaign's summons was given, had, in that inter- 
val of ten days, become formidable ; it extended along the 
sarid)' ridge or blulf, on which Savannah is built, from the 
swamp below the town to Yamacraw creek, which is its upper 
bouiidi'.ry. It consisted of a chain of redoubts with batteries, the 
wloi c.»v'M'ed in troii' . \ .•■;rM;^-ibbatis. The principal batte- 
ry ap^cai'tid to b« lu the centre ul theinie, where stood, when we 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 23 

first approached it, a large public building of brick, but which dis. 
aj»!>< vU'ed in one night, and in a day or two a fonnidabie battery 
w ,i< o[)eaed upon us from its .site. The next work in importance 
was the Spring Hill redoubt, which was on their extreme right, 
a; d commanded Yamacraw creek, at the mouth whereof was 
stationed a British galley. This line was admirably adapted to 
the enemy's force; if it hud been a closed line, their two thou- 
sand five hundred troops could not have manned the whole, es- 
pecially as they were obliged to have some slight works on each 
flank, and to pay some attention to their front on the river, as 
the French had sent some small vessels of war with a bomb- 
ketch into the back river, which is only separated from the 
main channel by an island of marsh. From the Z3d Septem- 
ber,* when our army first broke ground, we continued working 
in the trenches with great assiduity. Our batteries opened on 
the 5th of October, but though well served, apparently with 
little effect. The sap continued to be pushed forward until 
the 8th, when the remonstrance of the officers of the French 
fleet against their being detained lonifer on the coast, induced 
Count D'Estaigu to inform General Lincohi that he must 
withdraw his force ; but to prove his desire to serve the cause, 
he offered to co-operate in an assault upon the British lines. 
This appears to have been accepted as the pis-aller^ and on 
that day we were ordered to parade near the left of the line 
at I o'clock of the next morning, where we were to be joined 
by the French, and to iimrch to the attack in the following 
erder: — The French troops were to be divided into three 
columns, t!ie Americans into two, the heads of which were 
to be postc d in a line, with proper inte^rvals at the edge of 
the wood uljoining the open apace of five or six hundred yards 
between it and the enemy's line, and at 4 o'clock in the morn- 
ing, a little before day-light, the whole was, on a signal being 
given, to rush forward and attack the redoubts and batteries 

"I kept no njeniorandum of the dates, but have referred to Gen. Moul^ 
I trie's Memoirs for them. 



24 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

oppr,s< -r1 to their front. The American cohimn of the rii^ht, 
which adjoined the French, were to be preceded by Pulas-ki, 
with his cavalry and the cavah'y of South-Carohna, and were 
to follow the French uiitil they approached the edge of the 
wood, when they were to break off and take their position.' 
This column was composed of the Light Infantry under Colo- 
nel Laurens, of the 2d Regiment of South-Carolina, and the 
1st Battalion of Charleston Militia. The second American 
column consisted of the 1st and 5th South-Carolina Rejji- 
ments, commanded by Brigadier General MTntosh of Geor- 
gia. A corps of French West-India troops, under the 
Viscompte de Noailles, the Artillery, and some American Mili- 
tia, formed the reserve under General Lincoln. 

A faint attack by the South-Carolina Militia and Geor- 
gians, under Brigadier General Huger, was ordered to be 
made on the enemy's left; but, instead of the French troops 
being paraded so as to march off at 4 o'clock, it was near four 
before the head of that column reached our front. The whole 
armv then marched towards the skirt of the wood in one lonar 
column, and as they approached, the open space were to break 
off into the different columns, as ordered for the attack. But, by 
the time the first French column had arrived at the open space, 
the day had fairly broke, when Count D'Estaign, without wait- 
ing until the other columns had arrived at their position, placed 
himself at the head of his first column, and rushed forward to 
the attack. But this body was so severely galled by the grape- 
shot from the batteries as they advanced, and by both grape- 
shot and musketry when they reached the abbatis, that, in spite j 
of the effort of the officers, the column got into confusion i 
and broke away to their left toward the wood in that direction ; | 
the second and the third French columns shared successively 
the same fate, having the additional discouragement of seeing 
as they marched to the attack, the repulse and loss of their 
comrades who had preceded them. Count Pulask,, who, with 
Ahe Cavalry, preceded the right column of the Americans, 






REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 25 

proceeded gallantly until stopped by the abbatis, and before he 
could force through it, received his mortal wound. In the 
mean time, Colonel Laurens at the head of the Light Infantry, 
followed by the 2d South-Carolina Regiment, and 1st Battal- 
lion Charleston Militia, attacked the Spring Hill redoubt, 
got into the ditch and planted the < "Colours of the 2d Regi- 
ment on the berm, but the parapet was too high for them to 
scale it under so heavy a fire, and after much slaughter they 
were driven out of the ditch. When General Pulaski was 
about to be removed from the field, Colonel D. Horry, to 
whom the command of the Cavalry devolved, asked what were 
his directions. He answered, " follow my Lancers to whom I 
have given my order of attack." But the Lancers were so se- 
verely galled by the enemy's fire, that they also inclined otf to 
the left, and were followed by all the Cavalry, breaking through 
the American column, who were attacking the Spnng Hill re- 
doubt. By this time the 2d American column headed by Gen. 
M'Intosh, to which I was attached, arrived at the foot of the 
Spring Hill redoubt, and such a scene of confusion as there ap- 
peared, is not often equalled. Col. Laurens had been sepa- 
rated from that part of his command that had not entered the 
Spring Hill ditch by the Cavalry, who had borne it before them 
into the swamp to the left, and when we marched up, inquired 
if we had seen them. Count D'Estaigii was wounded in the 
arm, and endeavouring to rally his men, a few of whom with a 
drummer he had collected. General M'Intosh did not 
speak French, but desired me to inform tJie Commander-in 
chief that his column was fresh, and that he wished his direc- 
tions, where, under present circumstances, he should make 
the attack. The Count ordered that we siiould move more 
to the left, and by no means to interfere with the troops he 
was endeav )urmg to rally; in pursuing this direction we were 
thrown too ujuch to ihe left, and before we could reach the 
Spring Hill redoubt, we had to pass through Yainacraw 
^ Swamp, then wet and boggy, with the galley at the mouth 

3 



26 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

annoying our left flank with grape-shot. While struggling 
through this morass, the firing slacked, and it was report<^d 
that the whole army had retired. 1 was sent by General 
M'Intosh to look out from the Spring Hill, where I found 
not an assailant standing. On reporting this to the General, 
he ordered a retreat, which was effected without much loss, 
notwithstanding the heavy fire of grape-shot with which we 
were followed. 

The loss of both armies in killed and wounded a- 
mounted to 637 French and 457 Americans,* lOOOf. — 
The Irish Brigade in the French service, and our 2d Re- 
giment, particularly distinguished themselves and sufi'ered 
most. The loss of the British amounted only to fifty-five. 

Thus was this fine body of troops sacrificed by the impru- 
dence of the French General, who, being of superior grade, 
commanded the whole. If the French troops had left their 
encampment in time for the different corps to have reached 
their positions, and the whole attacked together, the prospect 
of success would have been infinitely better, though, even 
then it would have been very doubtful on account of the 
stjength of the enemy's line, which was well supplied by 
artillery But if Count D'Estaign had reflected a moment, 
he must have known, that attacking with a single column 
before the rest of the army could have reached their position, 
was exposing the army to be beaten in detail. In fact the 
enemy, who were to be assailed at once on a considerable part 
of their front, finding themselves only attacked at one point. 
Very deliberately concentrated their whole fire on the as- 
sailing column, and that was repeated as fast as the dilferent 
corps were brought up to the attack. General Lincoln had the 
command of the reserve and covered the retreat; if he had led 
the attack, I think the event could not have been so disastrous, 
and I am warranted in this opinion by the attack he made on 

* Moultrie- t Marshall. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 27 

the enemy's lines at Stono, where, when he found how strongly 
the enemy were entrenched, ahhough his hght infantry, on 
both flanks, had gained some advantage, withdrew the troops 
without any considerable loss. 

The similarity in the result of this attack on Savannah, and 
that of the British on New-Orleans in 1815, is remarkable; 
the losses of the assailants and their enemies was nearly in 
equal proportion. Neither can Packenham escape the cen- 
sure of precipitation, in urging the attack when he knew the 
scaling ladders he had ordered were not brought up, and be- 
fore Colonel Thornton had got possession of our batteries 
on the west side of the river, which, if brought to bear 
on the right flank of the American line, must have made an 
important diversion in favour of his attack. 



28 REVOLUTIOi\ARY ANECDOTES. 



ASGILL. 

Interesting particulars relative to the condemnation and subse- 
quent enlargement of Captain Sir Charles Asgill, of the 
British Guards. 

Sometime in the spring of 1782, a refugee officer named 
Lippincott, had caused Captain Huddy, of the American 
mihtia, (against whom it does not appear that any accusatiott 
was brought, or crime alleged, further than that of being 
found in arms, in opposition to the British troops,) to be 
executed without the formahty of a trial, and, as it was gene- 
rally believed, out of mere wantonness. Such a procedure, 
appeared to General Washington, so inconsistent with the 
laws of war, so great an outrage both of justice and humanity, 
as to determine him at once to resort to the fatal but neces- 
gary practice of retaliation. But, before any decided step 
was taken, a demand was made on the British Commander-in 
Chief at New- York, " That Lippincott should be delivered 
up to pay the forfeit of his crimes, and quiet the demands 
for vengeance, which were loudly called for from every 
quarter." No notice being taken of this demand, an order was 
sent, through Major Jackson, Deputy Secretary of War, to the 
commanding officer at Lancaster, where the British prisoners 
were confined, to select by lot, a Captain from among them, 
and send him under a guard, to the encampment of the main 
army,that by his death, he might atone for the murder of Captain 
Huddy, and convince the British Commander, who had 
evinced such extraordinary apathy, that every act of inhu- 
manity exercised towards the soldiers of America, should be 
revenged by a similar act of severity. The lot fell upon Sir 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 29 

Charles Asffill, of the British Guards, and in conformity to 
orders, accompanied by Major Gordon, of the British forces, 
he left Lancaster for the head-quarters of the American army. 
In passing; through Philadelphia, these gentlemen were receiv- 
ed with great respect, and treated with every mark of atten- 
tion by Major Jackson, who, to save them from the gaze of 
idle and prying curiosity, removed the centinel placed at the 
door of their apartment, and actually received them into his 
own quarters as his guests. The same delicate attention 
accompanied them throughout their journey. When he arrived 
at head-quarters, he was, by General Washington, committed 
to the charge of Colonel Dayton, of the Jersey line. To 
those who knew the mild and benevolent character of the 
American Commmander-in-Chief, it is scarcely necessary to 
say, that to aggravate misfortune by unnecessary severity, was 
equally inconsistent with his principles and his practice. In 
his letter, dated January 11th, 1782, (several communications 
having been previously made) he writes to Colonel Dayton, 
" It is necessary that the security of your prisoner should be 
strictly attended to, but I wish at the same time, that all leni- 
ty should be shewn him, consistent with his present situation." 
And again, in a letter to the same officer, dated June, 22d, 
1782 — " The only object that I had in view, in ordering the 
close confinement of your prisoner, was, that he might be 
perfectly secured ; but I am willing, and do wish every indul- 
gence to be granted him, that is not inconsistent with that." 
That this conduct on the part of General Washington was 
sensibly felt, and properly appreciated at the time, appears 
evident from the following letter of Captain Asgill, himself. 

To His Excellency General Washington^ Commander-in- 
Chief of the American Army, 
" Colonel Dayton's Quarters, Chat. May 17, 1782. 
" On the 30th of the last month, I had the honour of address- 

irig your Excellency in writing, stating the manner of my con» 

-3* 



30 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

fineme^^t, and the circumstances that induced me to claim 
your protection. Being ignorant of the fate of my letter, it 
woiild be satisfactory to me, if your Excellency would be 
pleased to inform me if it has been received. In consequence 
of your orders, Colonel Dayton was desirous of removing me 
to camp, but being ill of a fever, I prevailed on him to let me 
remain at his quarters, closely confined ; which indulgence, I 
hope, will not be disapproved of. t cannot conclude this 
letter, without expressing my gratitude to your Excellency, 
for ordering Colonel Dayton to favour me as much as my 
situation would admit of and in justice to him, I must ac- 
knowledge the feeling and attentive manner in which those 
commands were executed. 

" I have the honour to be, with the greatest respect, your Ex- 
cellency's most obedient servant, 

"CHARLES ASGILL, 

■" Captain First Regiment Foot Guards.'' 



To what then, but the deadly animosity of a nation, insti- 
gated by the successful opposi ion to their arms, and the 
threatening prospect of the loss of empire, can be attributed 
the falsehoods and scurrilities with which the British prints, on 
both sides of the Atlantic overflowed. Their editors unblush- 
ingly asserted *'that Captain Asgill was thrice conducted to 
the foot of the gallows, in order to complete the threatened 
retaliation ; and, moreover, that the instrument of punishment 
erected in front of his prison, did not cease to otter to his 
eyes, the dreadful preparations, more awful than death 
itself." 

The promulgation of these calumnies, could not fail to make 
a deep impression where the truth was not known, and, with 
a poignancy unspeakable, to lacerate and afflict the bosoms 
of his friends and family. I cannot, however, too higiily ap- 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 81 

plaud the strong expresssion of maternal tenderness exhibited 
by Lady Assjill, nor sufficiently admire the pathetic style in 
which she endeavours to excite the generous sympathies of 
the Count de Verge nnes in favour of her son. No tale of 
woe was ever told, that appeared more decidedly calculated 
to excite interest, and move the heart to pity. The amiable 
character of the victim, the heart-rending agony of his mother, 
the delirium of his lovely sister, the sympathy of his friends, 
caused every person, ahve to the impulses of generous feeling, 
to dread the catastrophe that so cruelly threatened the destruc- 
tion of an innocent and unfortunate family. Still indignation 
must follow the base attempt, to cover the character of Gene- 
ral Washington with obloquy — and still more the eifort, to 
attribute to foreign influence (a conclusion constantly insisted 
on) the safety of Asgill, which it is perfectly well known, 
proceeded from General Washington's calm and dispassionate 
examination of circumstances, and developement of the fict, 
" that the murder, on the part of Lippincott, was not a 
wanton exercise of power, nor an act of cruelty proceeding 
from the pride of brief authority, but a deliberate act, sanc- 
tioned by Governor Franklin^ presiding at a Board ot LoyaU 
ists, and approved by a majority of the members.'''* The 
ground of complaint was thus completely changed. The 
demand for the person of Lippincott, who acted under the 
orders of a superior authority, was unhesitatingly given up. 
Of this Congress was immediately informed by (General 
Washington, and their views of the subject according with his 
own, an order for tlie release of the prisoner instaniianeously 
followed. They notice with politeness the zeal of the Count de 
Vergennes, in the cause of humanity, (and who would refuse 
to do so) but there is no hint given, no insinuation conveyed, 
that to his letter Captain Asgill was indebted for his life. A 
'sense of strict propriety, caused the nobh'-niinded Washitjgton 
to alter his original opinions, and ever averse to the induigeuce 
of unnecessary severity, he gladly embraced the occasion of 



32 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

pleadinscthe cause of an innocent man with Congress, and 
obtriiiied t)ieir consent to set him free. It should be remem- 
bered also, if further proof is deemed necessary to establish 
the anxious desire of General Washington to mitigate misf )r- 
tune, and to soften the rigour of a separation from the friends 
th If he loved, that permission was given to Captain Ludlow, 
of the British Guards, to visit his friend, and to Major Gordon 
to remain with him, bv soothing attentions to beguile the 
tedious hours of confinement, and to give him fortitude to 
support the worst that might happen. The last letter of 
G; i^eral Washington to Captain Asgill, speaks for itself— it 
needs no comment ; — 

" Head-Q,uarters, November 13th, 1782. 

«« Sir — It affords me singular satisfaction to have it in my 
power to transmit to you the inclosed copy of an act of 
Congress of the 7th instant, by which you are released from 
the disagreeable circumstances in which you have been so 
lono-. Supposing you would wish to go to New- York, as soon 
as possible, I also inclose a passport for that purpose. Your 
letter of the 18th October, came early to my hands ; I beg you 
to believe that my not answering it sooner did not proceed 
from any inattention to you, or want of feeling for your situa- 
tion. I daily expected a termination of your case, and I 
thousjht it better to await that, than feed you with hopes, that 
murht in the end prove fruitless. You will attribute my de- 
teition of the inclosed letter, which has been in my hands 
a fortnight, to the same cause. I cannot take my leave of 
you. Sir, without assuring you, that in whatever light my agen- 
cy in this affair may be viewed, I Mas never influenced, 
throughout the whole of it, by sanguinary motives, but by what 
I considered a sense of duty, which loudly called upon me to 
tako measures, however disagreeable, to prevent a repetition 
of those enormities, which have been the subject of discussion ; 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 33 

and tliat the important end is likely to be answered, without 
the eifusion of the blood of an innocent person, is not a great- 
er relief to you, than it is Sir, to 

Your obedient servant, 

GEORGE WASHINGTON." 



Notwithstanding so satisfactory a termination of this event- 
ful business, the British Gazettes continued lavishly to dis- 
seminate abuse, and even to assert, " that Captain Asgill 
himself, was^ on all occasions^ loud in proclaiming the unneces- 
sary rigour extended towards him by General Washington^ 
and. a scandalous want of delicacy on the part of the American 
ojicers, zoith whom he came in contact.'''* I was greatly sur- 
prised at these statements, and loth to believe them. I had 
been a school-fellow of Sir Charles Asgill, an inmate of the 
«ame boarding-house for several years, and a disposition 
more mild, gentle, and affectionate, I never met with. I con- 
sidered him as possessed of that high sense of honour, which 
characterizes the youths of Westminster in a pre-eminent deo-ree. 
Conversing sometime afterwards with 3Ir. Henry Middleton, 
of Suffolk, Great Britain, and inquiring, if it was possible 
that Sir Charles Asgill, could so far forget his obligations to a 
generous enemy, as to return his kindness with abuse. Mr. 
Middleton, who had been our contemporary at school, and 
who had kept up a degree of intimacy with Sir Charles, denied 
the justice of the accusation, and declared, that the person 
charged with an act so base, not only spoke with gratitude of 
the conduct of General Washington, but was lavish in his com- 
mendations of Colonel Dayton, and of all the officers of 
the Continental army, whose duty had occasionally intro- 
duced them to his acquaintance. It may now be too late to 
remove unfavourable impressions on the other side of the 
Atlantic, (should my essay ever reach that far,) but it is still a 
pleasure to me, to do justice to the memory of our beloved 



34 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

Washington, and to free from the imputation of dupHcity, 
and ingratitude, a gentleman, of whose merits I had ever en- 
tertained an opinion truly exalted. 



Letter from Lady Asgillto the Count de Vergennes. 

"Sir, — If the politeness of the French Court will permit a 
stranger to address it, it cannot be doubted but that she, who 
unites in herself, all the more delicate sensations, with which an 
individual can be penetrated, will be received favourably, by a 
nobleman, who reflects honour, not only on his nation, but on 
human nature. The object on which I implore your assist- 
ance, is too heart-rending to be dwelt upon. Most probably 
the public report of it has already reached you ; this relieves 
me from the burden of so mournful a duty. My Son : my 
only Son, dear to me as he is brave, amiable as he is beloved, 
only nineteen years of nge — a prisoner of war, in consequence 
of the capitulation of Yorktowu, is at present confined in 
America, as an object of reprisal. Shall the innocent suffer 
the fate of the guilty 1 Figure to yourself. Sir, the situation of 
a family in these circumstances. Surrounded as I am with 
objects of distress, bowed down with fear and grief, words are 
wanting to express what I feel and to paint such a scene of 
misery. My husband, given over by his physicians before 
the arrival of this news, not in a situation to be informed of it. 
My daughter, attacked by a fever, accompanied by delirium, 
speaking of her brother in tones of distress, and without an 
interval of reason, unless to listen to some circumstance which 
may console her heart. Let your sensibility. Sir, paint to you 
my profound, my inexpressible misery, and plead in my 
favour. A word from you^ like a voice from Heaven, would 
lib. rate us from desolation — from the last degree of misfortune. 
I know how far General Washington reveres your character, 
'icii htm only, that you wish vny son restored to liberty, and 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 35 

be will restore him to his desponding family, — he will restore 
him to happiness. The virtue of my son, will justify this act 
of clemency. His honour, Sir, led him to America ; he wag 
born to abundance, to independence, and to the happiest pros- 
pects. Permit me once more to entreat the interference of 
your high influence, in favour of innocence, and in the cause of 
justice and humanity. Despatch, Sir, a letter from France, to 
Ge.'jeral Washington, and favor me with a copy of it, that it 
may be transmitted from hence. I feel the whole weight of the 
hb<'rty taken in presenting this request ; but I feel coufident, 
that whether granted or not, you will pity the distress, by 
which it is suggested ; your humanity will drop a tear upon 
my fault, and blot it out forever. May that Heaven which I 
implore, grant that you may never need the consolation, which 
you have it in your power to bestow, on 

THERESA ASGILL." 



The news of the liberation of her Son, produced the tes- 
timonial of a mother's gratitude, in the letter which fol- 
lows : — 

" Exhausted by long suffering, overpowered by the excess of 
unexpected happiness, confined to my bed by weakness and 
languor, bent to the earth by what I have undergone, my sen- 
sibility alone could supply me with strength sufficient to ad- 
dress you. Condescend, Sir, to accept this feeble effort of my 
gratitude. It has been laid at the feet of the Almighty, and, 
believe me, it has been presented with the same sincerity to 
you Sir, and to your illustrious Sovereigns. By their august 
and salutary intervention, as by your own, a Son is restored to 
me, to whom my life was att u-lied. Yes, Sir, they will jjroduce 
tiieir effect before the dreadful and 1 ist tribuvial, vi^here I in- 
dulge the hope we shall both appenr together, ym lO receive 
the recompense of your virtues, myaelfthai of my suiierAii^js. I 



36 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

will raise my voice before the imposing tribunals, T will call 
for those registers in which your humanity will be found re- 
corded, I will pray that blessings may be showered on your 
head; upon him, who, availing himself of the noblest privilege 
received from God — a privilege, no other than divine — has 
changed misery into happiness — has withdrawn the sword 
from the iiinocent head, and restored the most worthy of 
sons to the most tender and alFectionate of mothers. Conde- 
scend, Sir, to accept the jnst tribute of gratitude due to your 
virtuous sentiments. Preserve this tribute, and may it go 
down to posterity as a testimony of your sublime and exem- 
plary beneficence to a stranger, whose nation was at war with 
your own, but whose tender affections had not been destroyed 
by war. May this tribute bear testimony of my gratitude, 
long after the hand that expresses it ; the heart, which, at this 
moment, only vibrates with the vivacity of grateful sentiments, 
shall be reduced to dust, it shall bear out to offer you all the 
respect and all the gratitude with which it is penetrated. 

"THERESA ASGILL. 
" To His Excellency the Count De Vergcnnes." 

The first of these lettters, so replete with tenderness, so 
expressive of the anxious fears of an affectionate mother, gave 
birth to the communication which immediately follows. The 
second, so strongly indicative of her gratitude to the happy 
being who had endeavoured to succour and to save her, was 
the natural result of the interference to which she believed she 
owed the safety of her son. 

Copy of a letter from the Count de Vergennes to General 
Washington, dated July 29th, 1752. 

'* Sir, — It is not in the quality of the Minister of a King, 
the friend and ally of the United States, (though with the know- 
ledge of his Majesty) that 1 have now the honour to write to 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 37 

your Excellency. It is as a man of sensibility and a tender 
father, who feels all the force of paternal love, that I take the 
liberty to address to your Excellency my earnest solicitations 
in favour of a mother and family in tears. Her situation 
seems the more worthy of notice on our part ^ as it is to a nation 
at war with her own, tliat she has recourse for which she 
ought to receive from the impartial justice of her own Generals. 
I have the honour to inclose your Excellency the copy of a let- 
ter which Lady Asgill has just wrote to me. I am not known 
to her, nor was I acquainted with her son, who was the unhappy 
victim, destined by lot, to expiate the odious crime, that a for- 
mal denial of justice obliged you to revenge. Your Excellency 
will not read the letter without being extremely affected, it had 
that effect on the King and upon the Queen, to whom I com- 
municated it. The goodness of their Majesty's hearts induced 
them to desire that the inquietudes of an unfortunate mother 
may be calmed, and her tenderness reassured. I feel, Sir, 
tliat there are cases, where humanity itself exacts the most 
extreme rigour ; perhaps the one in question may be of the 
number, but, allowing reprisals to be just, it is not less hard 
on those who are the victims, and the character of your Excel- 
lency is too well known for me not to be persuaded that you 
dtsire to do nothing more than to be able to avoid the disa- 
greeable necessity. There is one consideration. Sir, which, 
though it is not decisive, may have an influence on your resolu- 
tion. Captain Asgill is, doubtless, your prisoner, but he is 
among those whom the arms of the King contributed to put 
into your hatids at Yorktown. Although this circumstance 
does not operate as a safeguard, it however justifies the interest 
I permit myself to take in this affiiir. If it is in your power, 
Sir, to consider and have regard to it, you will do that which 
will highly gratify their Majesties. The danger of young 
Asgill, the tears and despair of his mother affect them sensibly, 
and they will see, with pleasure, the hope of consolation shine 
on these unfortunate people. In seeking to deliver Mr. Asgill 

4 



38 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

from the fate which threatens him, I am far from engaging you 
to seek another victim — the pardon to be perfectly satisfactory, 
must be entire. I do not imagine that it can be productive of 
any bad consequences. If the British General has not been 
able to punish the horrid crime you complain of, in so exem- 
plary a way as he should, there is reason to think that he will 
take the most efficacious measures to prevent its repetition. 
I sincerely wish, Sir, that my intercession may meet success, 
the sentiment which dictates it, and which you have not ceased 
to manifest on every occasion, assures me that you will not be 
indifferent to the prayers and to the tears of a family, which 
has recourse to your clemency through me. It is rendering 
homage to your virtue, to implore it. I have the honour to be, 
with the most perfect consideration, Sir, Your's, &c. 

DE VERGENNES. 

The order of Congress for the release of Captain Asgill^ 
was to this effect : — 

In Congress — November 7th, 1783. 

On the report of the Committee, to whom was referred a 
letter of the 19th of August, from the Commander-in-chief, 
and on motion of Mr. Williamson and Mr. Rutledge, relative 
thereto, — and, also, another letter of the 25th October, from 
the Commander-in-chief, with the copy of a letter from the 
Count de Vergennes, dated the 29th July last, interceding for 
Captain Asgill, 

Resolved, That the Commander-in-chief be directed, and 
he is hereby directed to set Captain Asgill at liberty. 

CHARLES THOMPSON, Secretary. 

Some further particulars relative to Captain Sir Charles 
Asifill, having come to my knowledge since making the above 
statement, I think myself called upon by imperious duty to 
pubhsh them, however decided their tendency to destroy the 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 39 

favourable sentiments I wished to inculcate of his candour 
and veracity. The prepossessing traits of character that 
adorned his early years, I can never forget, nor is it possible 
for me to suppose, that to Mr. Middleton, whose entire family 
(with a single exception) were enthusiastically engaged in the 
service of America, he would have expressed a grateful sensi- 
bility for favour shown him, while in the circle of his more 
intimate associates, he had industriously propagated senti- 
ments so decidedly contradictory. One circumstance, I con- 
fess, not only wounds my feelings, but staggers my faith. — 
That no reply was made to that highly interesting and pathetic 
letter of General Washington, informing him of his liberation 
from captivity, and freedom from the penalties that threatened 
his life, accompanied at the same time by passports, which 
enabled him to join his companions in New- York, and speedily 
to assuage the tumults of his mother's breast, and restore his 
sister to reason and to happiness, must appear strange, and in 
nowise consistently with propriety, to be accounted for. It 
manifested (to give it no harsher name) a want of politeness 
and respect, that with a gentleman^ must be deemed impar- 
donable. If my opinions have been more favourable to 
him than they ought to have been, I sincerely lament it, since 
in the language of the poet I can truly say, 

** I hate Jtigraiitude more than the sin of lying." 

An American Gentleman, residing in London, wrote to 
Colonel Tilghman, formerly Aid-de-camp to General Wash- 
ington, to this effect : — 

" There are some persons here, who give credit to a charge 
exhibited against our good and great General Washington, by 
young Asgill, of ill-treatment and cruelty towards himself. — 
He alleges, that a gibbet was erected before his prison win- 
dow, and often pointed to in an insulting manner, as good 
and proper for him to atone for Huddy's death, and many 



I Li 



40 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

Other insults, which he believes were countenanced by General 
Washington^ who was id ell-inclined to execute the sentence on 
him, but was restrained by the French General Rocham- 
heau."*^ 

This letter was communicated to General Washington by 
the father of Colonel Tilghman, (the Colonel himself being 
dead before it reached America,) and was immediately replied 
to by the General, in the following terms : — 

'•'Mount Vernon, July 5tli, 1786. 

'*' That a calumny, such as mentioned by the correspondent 
of your Son, has been reported, I knew. I had laid my 
account for the misrepresentations of anonymous scribblers, 
but had never conceived before, that one, such as related, 
could have originated with, or met the countenance of Captain 
Asgilly whose situation often filled me with the keenest 
anguish. I felt for him on many accounts, and not the least 
when viewing him as a man of honour and sentiment. I con- 
sidered how unfortunate it was for him, that a wretch that 
possessed neither, should be the means of causing in him a 
single pang, or disagreeable sensation. My favourable 
opinion of him, however, is forfeited, if, being acquainted with 
these reports, he did not immediately contradict them. That 
I could have given countenance to the insults which he says 
were offered to his person, especially the grovelling one of 
erecting a gibbet before his prison window, will, I expect, be 
scarcely believed, when I explicitly declare, that I have never 
heard of an attempt to offer an insult, and that I had every 
reason to be convinced, that he was treated by the officers 
around him, with all the tenderness, and every civility, in their 
power. I would feign ask Captain Asgill, how he could 
reconcile such belief, (if his mind had been seriously impressed 
with it,) to the continual indidgence and procrastination he 
experienced'? He will not, I presume, deny that he wa's 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 41 

admitted to his parole, within ten or twelve miles of the British 
hnes ; if not to a formal parole^ to a confidence yet more 
unlimited, by beino^ permitted, for the benefit of his health, 
and the recreation of his body, to ride, not only about the 
cantonment, but into the surrounding country for several 
miles, with his friend and companion Maj. Gordon, constantly 
attending him. Would not this indulgence have pointed out 
to a military character the fountain from which it flowed 1 Did 
he conceive that discipline was so bad in the American army, 
as that any officer in it would have granted this liberty to a 
person confined by the express order of the Commander-in- 
chief, unless authorized to do so by the same authority 1 And 
to ascribe them to the interference of the Count Rochambeau, 
is as void of foundation as his other conjectures, for I do not 
recollect that a sentence ever passed betwixt the General and 
myself, upon the subject. I was not without suspicion, after 
the final liberation and return of Captain Asgill to New- York, 
that his mind had been improperly impressed ; or, that he wa8 
deficient in politeness. The treatment he had met with, in 
my conception, merited an acknowledgment. None however 
lOas offered, and I never sought the cause. This concise 
account of the treatment of Captain Asgill, is given from a 
hasty recollection of the circumstances. If I had time, and 
it were essential, by unpacking my papers and recurring to 
authentic files, I might have been more pointed and full. It is 
in my power at any time to convince the unbiassed mindy that 
my conduct, throughout the whole of this business, was 
neither influenced by passion, guided by inhumanity, or under 
the control of any interference whatsoever. I essayed every 
thing to save the innocent, bring the guilty to punishment, 
and stop the further perpetration of similar crimes. With 
I what success the impartial world must, and certainly will 
^ decide. With very great esteem and regard, I have th© 
honour to be, dear M»ir, your most obedient servant, 

GEORGE WASHINGTON." 
" To James Tilghman^ Esq.'''' 

4* 



42 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



PATRIOTIC CONDUCT OF THE AMERICAN LA- 
DIES. 

I have been accused of lavishly bestowing encomiums on 
the patriotism of the Ladies of South-Carolina, while I scarcely 
noticed the meritorious conduct of females, equally distin- 
guished, in other parts of the Union, However appearances 
may condemn me, 1 cannot attribute, to myself, the fault of 
intentional neglect ; I gave details of occurrences, that I knew 
to be correct ; but ventured not, on mere report, to speak of 
events abroad, that, however honourable to my country, might 
prove, on being particularly inquired into, false and exaggerat- 
ed. AVith the increase of knowledge came also an ardent 
desire to bestow the palm of merit wheresoever it had been 
acquired ; and I, as much delighted to celebrate the unremitted 
zeal of the ladies of Philadelphia, and of Trenton, raising 
ftinds for the succour and support of the army, wasted by 
disease*, and perishing under the accumulated miseries of 
lamine and nakedness, as in presenting to public view the 
patient sufferings and resistance to oppression, by the fair 
daughters of Carolina. I will say still more. Confident 
I am, that the intrepidity of the sainted being,* wlio 
afterwards honoured me with her hand, in rescuing from 
a position of extreme danger, her infant relative, (T>loifel 
Fenwick, did not in a higher degree excite my admiration aiid 
applause, than the bold and unshaken courage of the lady oJK 
Tvhom I am now about to speak. 

MRS. BORDEN. 

At a period when the cloud of misfortune obscured the 
ijright prospects of America, and even to our most sanguine 

* MS38 Mary Anna Gibbr. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 4S 

patriots, the expectation of establishing our independence 
appeared but a visionary dream ; when New- York and 
Rhode-Island were quietly possessed by the British armies, 
and the Jerseys overrun by their victorious Generals, opposed 
but a feeble resistance to their overwhelmmg power, a British 
officer,* of the highest rank, commanding a large division of 
their troops, stationed at Bordentown, addressing Mrs. Bor- 
den, who resided on her estate in a mansion of superior 
elegance, demanded in an authoritative tone, *' Where, 
Madam, is your rebel husband — where your rebel sou T' 
*' Doing their duty to their country, under the orders of Gen. 
"Washington," was the prompt reply. " We are well ap- 
prized" rejoined the officer, " of the influence you possess, 
over the political creed of your family, and that to them your 
opinion is law. Be wise, then, in tinip, and while mercy is 
tendered to you, fail not to accept it. Bid them quit the 
standard of rebelhon, and cordially unite with us, in bringing 
his Majesty's deluded subjects to submission, and a proper 
sense of their errors and ingratitude, to the best of kings. 
Your property will then be protected, aiid remain without 
injury in your possession. But, should you hesitate to profit 
by our clemency, the wasting of your estate and destruction of 
yoijr mansion will inevitably follow." " Begin, then, the 
huvQck which you threaten," replied the heroic lady, "the 
sight of my house in flames, would be to me a treat, for, I have 
se^^t) enough of you to know, that you never injure, what it is 
pf>;s;ble for you to keep and enjoy. The application of a 
torch to it I should regard as a signal for your departure, and 
CO »-ider the retreat of the spoiler an ample compensation foi* 
the loss of my property." 

This was one of those threats, which the British never failed 
te) carry into execution. The house was burnt, and the 
whole property consigned to waste and desolation. But, as 
have b^en fori;seen, the perpetrator of tiie ruthlesg deed, rer 
^eated to return no more. 

*■ Lord Cornwallis, 



44 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES* 



LYDIA DARFAH* 

The anecdote which follows is fully detailed by the editor 
of the American Quarterly Review, in the first number of his 
interesting publication. It has been in my possession since 
the year 1822, when it was presented to me by that respectable 
gentleman himself. In some immaterial points our statements 
di'V r ; yet, as the narrative affords a trait of heroism, credita- 
ble to the patriotic firmness of a female of our country, V am 
CO 'fident that I shall not offend him by giving it a place in; 
my collections. 

The superior officers of the British army, were accustomed 
to hold their consultations on all subjecs of importance at the 
house of William and Lydia Darrah, members of the Society 
of Friends, immediately opposite to the quarters of the Com- 
mander-in-chief, in Second-street. It was in December, in 
the year that they occupied the city, that the Adjutant General 
of theTirmy desired Lydia to have an apart aent prepared for 
the reception of himself and friends, and to order her family 
early to bed : adding, when ready to depart, notice shall be 
^iven to you to let us out, and to extinguish the fire and can- 
dles. The manner of delivering this order, especially that 
part of it which commanded the early retirement of her 
family, strongly excited Lydia's curiosity, and determined her, 
if possible, to discover the mystery of their meeting. Ap- 
proaching without shoes, the room in which tlie confereice 
was held, and placing her ear lo the key-hole, she heard (he 
order read for the troops to quit the city on the night of the 
4th, to attack the American army encamped at White Marsh, 
Returning immediately to her room, she laid herself down, 
but in a little while, a loud knocking at the door, which for 
Bome rime she pretended not to hear, proclaimed the intention 
i>f the party to retire. Having let them out, she again sought 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 45 

her bed, but not to sleep ; the agitation of her miiid preclud 'd 
the possibility of enjoying it. She thought only of the dangers 
that threatened the lives of thousands of her countrymen, and 
believing it to be in her power to avert tlie evil, determined at 
all hazards to apprize General Washington of his danger. 
Telling her husband at early dawn, that flour was wanting for 
domestic purposes, and that she should go to Frankford to 
obtain it. She repaired to Head Quarters, got access to 
General Howe, and obtained permission to pass the British 
lines. Leaving her bag at the mill, Lydia now pressed for- 
ward towards the American army, and meeting Captain Allen 
M'Lean, an officer from his superior intelligence and activity, 
selected by General Washington to gain intelligence, discover- 
ed to him the important secret, obtaining his promise not to 
jeopardize her safety by telling from whom he had obtained it 
Captain M'Lean with all speed informed the Commander-in*' 
chief of his danger, who, of course, took every necessary step 
to baffle the contemplated enterprize, and to show the enemy 
that he was prepared to receive them. Lydia returned home 
with her flour, secretly watched the movements of the British 
army, and saw them depart. Her anxiety during their absence 
was excessive, nor was it lessened when on their return the 
Adjutant General summoning her to his apartment and iockuig 
the door with an air of mystery, demanded " Whether any of 
the family were up on the night that he had received company 
at her house V She told him, that without an exception, they 
had all retired at 8 o'clock." " Yoa, I know, Lydia, were 
asleep, for 1 knocked at your door three times before yoa 
heard me, yet, although I am at a loss to conceive who gave 
the information df our intended attack to General Washington, 
it is certam that we were betrayed. For, on arriving near 
his encampment, we found his cannon mounted — his troops 
under arnis, and at every point so perfectly prepared to 
rec' ive us, that we were compelled like fools to make a reiro- 
gr movement, -.vithout inflicting on our enemy any maaaer 
of injury whatsoever." 



46 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTFS. 

The editor of the QMdTUrly Review^ designates Lt. Colonel 
Craiir, as the American officer to whom Lydia communicated 
her Hiipprtant intelligence. Judge Marshall, in his Memoirs, 
appears to think as I do, that it was to Colonel M'Lean. 



The anecdote which follows, being highly creditable to 
female patriotism, is recorded by me with pecuhar de- 
light : — 

ESCAPE OF CAPTAIN PLUNKETT. 

Captain Plunkett, a high-spirited Irishman, whose attach- 
ment to the cause of liberty had led him to seek a commission 
in the Continental army, had, by the chances of war, been 
compelled to give up his sword, and to surrender himself a 
prisoner to the enemy. Previously to this untoward event, by 
the suavity of his manners, and uniformly correct conduct, he 
had rendered himself an acceptable guest in many families in 
Philadelphia, and particularly so, to one of the Society of 
Friends, who, however averse to warfare, were not insensible 
of the claims of those to their regard, who, by the exercise of 
majily and generous feelings, delighted to soften its asperities. 
There was among them a female, mild and gentle as a dove, 
yet, in firmness of mind, a heroine, and in personal charms 
an angel. She saw the sufferings of the captive soldier, and 
under the influences of pity, or perhaps a more powerful pas- 
sion, resolved, at all hazards to relieve him. It acci- 
dentally happened, that the uniform of Captain Plun- 
kett's Regiment bore a striking resemblance to that of a Bri- 
tish corps, which was frequently set as a guard o\ ^)r the prison 
in winch he was confined, A new suit of regimentals was jn 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 47 

eotisequence procured and conveyed, without suspicion of 
suiister design, (o the Captain. On the judicious use of these 
rested the hopes of the fair Friend to give him freedom. It 
frequently happened that officers of inferior grade, while their 
superiors affected to shun ull intercourse with rebels, would 
enter the apartments of the prisoners, and converse with them 
with knidness and famih irity, and then at their pleasure retire. 
Twocentinels constantly walked the rounds without, and the 
practice of seeing their officers walking in and out of the inte- 
rior prison, became so familiar, as scarcely to attract notice, 
a;i'i co'i.sta<ji.ly caused them to 2^'ive way without hesitatioi, as 
often as an officer showed a disposition to retire. Captain 
Plunkett took the advantage of this circumstance, and 
putting on his new coat, at the moment that the rehef of the 
Guard was taking pi ^ce, sallied forth, twirling a switch care- 
lessly about md ord^^ring the exterior door of the prison to be 
opened, walked witiiout opposition into the street. Repair- 
ing without delay to the habitation of his fair friend, he was 
received with kindness, and for some days secreted and 
cherished with every manifestation of affectionate reo"ard. 
To elude the vigilance of the British Guards, if he attempted 
to pass into the country, in his present dress, was deemed 
impossible. Woman's wit, however, is never at a loss for 
contrivances, while swayed by the influences of love or be- 
nevolence. Both, in this instance, may have aided invention. 
Plunkett had three strong claims in his favour : he was a 
handsome man — a soldier — and an Irishman. The ge- 
neral propensity of the Quakers, in favor of the Royal cause, 
exr^mpted the sect in a great measure from suspicion, in so 
great a degree indeed, that the barriers of the city were 
generally entrusted to the care of their members, as the best 
judges of the characters of those persons who might be 
allowed to pass them, without injury to the British interests. 
A f<^male Friend, of low orig!5«, officiating as 4 servant in a 
iferm near the city, was in the family, on a visit to a relative.- 



48 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

A pretext was formed to present her with a new suit of clothes, 
in order to possess that which she wore when she entered the 
city. Captain Plunkett was immediately disguised as a 
woman, and appeared at the barrier accompanied by his 
anxious deliverer. " Friend Roberts," said the enterprising 
enthusiast, " may this damsel and myself pass to visit a 
friend at a neighbouring farm ?" " Certainly," said Roberts, 
" go forward." The city was speedily left behind, and Capt. 
Plunkett found himself safe under the protection of Colo, el 
Alleri M'Lean, his particular friend, from whose lips 1 received 
the anecdote now recorded. 



PENNSYLVANIA LADIES. 

Before I enter into particulars relative to the exemplary 
conduct of the Ladies of Philadelphia, I would notice a 
publication in the Philadelphia papers, dated June, 1780, 
under the title 

** THE SENTIMENTS OF AN AMERICAN WOMAN." 

^ [from niles' register.] 

"On the commencement of actual war, the women of Ameri- 
oa manifested a firm resolution to contribute as much as could 
depend on them, to the deliverance of their country. Animat- 
ed by the purest patriotism, they are sensible of sorrow at this 
day, in not offering more than barren wishes for the success 
of so glorious a revolution. They aspire to render themselves 
more really useful, and this sentiment is universal, from the 
North to the South of the thirteen United States. Our 
ambition is kindled by the fame of those heroines of antiquity, 
trho have made their sex illustrious, and have proved to the 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 4d 

tiniverse, that of the weakness of our constitution, if opinions 
and manners did not forbid us to march to glory by the same 
paths as the men, we should at least equal and sometimes 
surpass them in our love for the public good. I glory in all 
that my sex has done great and commendable. I call to mind 
with enthusiasm, and with admiration, all those acts of cou- 
rage, of constancy and patriotism, which history has trans- 
mitted to us. The people, favoured by Heaven, preserved 
from destruction by the virtue, the zeal, and the resolution of 
Deborah, of Judith, of Esther! The fortitude of the mother 
of the Machabees, in giving up her sons to die before her 
eyes. Rome, saved from the fury of a victorious enemy by 
the efforts of Volumnia, and other Roman ladies. So many 
famous sieges, where the women have been seen forgetting the 
weakness of their sex, building new walls, digging trenches 
with their feeble hands, and furnishing arms to their defenders ; 
they themselves darting the missile weapons on the ene- 
my — resigning the ornaments of their apparel, and their for- 
tunes to fill the public treasury, and to hasten to deliver their 
country — burying themselves under the ruins — throwing them- 
selves into the flames, rather than submit to the disgrace of 
humiliation, before a proud and haughty enemy. Born for 
liberty, disdaining to bear the oppression of a tyrannic govern- 
ment, we associate ourselves to the grandeur of those sove- 
reigns, cherished and revered, who have held with so much 
splendor the sceptre of the greatest States. The Matildas, 
the Elizabeth's, the Mary's, ajjd the Catharine's, and have 
extended the empire of liberty, and contented to reign by 
sweetness and justice, have broken the chains of slavery, 
forged by tyrants in the times of ignorance aiid barbarity. 
The Spanish women — do they not make at this moment, the 
most patriotic sacrifices, to increase the means of victory in 
the hands of their sovereign 1 He is a friend to the French 
nation. They are our allies. We call to in.nd, doubly 
interested, that it was a French maid, who l^indled up among 

5 



50 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

her fellow-citizens the flame of patriotism, buried under long 
misfortunes. It was the Maid of Orleans, who drove from 
the kingdom of France the ancestors of those same British, 
whose odious yoke we have just shaken off, and whom it is 
necessary that we should drive from the continent. But I 
will limit myself to this small number of achievements. — 
Who knows if persons disposed to censure, and sometimes 
too severely, with regard to us, may not disapprove our 
appearing acquainted even with the actions of which our sex 
boast? We are at least certain, that he cannot be a good 
citizen, who will not applaud our effort for the relief of the 
armies, which defend our lives, our possessions, our liberties. 
The situation of our soldiery has been presented to me, the 
evils inseparable from war, and the firm and generous spirit, 
which has enabled them to support these. But, it has been 
said, that they may apprehend, that in the course of a long 
"War, the view of their distresses may be lost, and their 
services forgotten. Forgotten? Never. I can answer in the 
name of all my sex. Brave Americans ! Your disinterested- 
ness — your courage — and your constancy, will always be dear 
to your country, as long as she shall preserve her virtue. — 
We know, that at a distance from the theatre of war, if we 
enjoy any tranquillity, it is the fruit of your watchings — your 
labours — your dangers. If I live happy in the midst of my 
family : if my husband cultivates his field and reaps his harvest 
in peace : if surrounded with my children, I, myself, nourish 
the youngest, and press it to my bosom, without being afraid of 
seeing myself separated from it, by a ferocious enemy : if the 
house in which we dwell — if our barns — our orchards, are safe 
at the present time from the hands of these incendiaries, it is 
to you that we owe it. And shall we hesitate to evidence to 
you our gratitude? Shall we hesitate to wear clothing more 
simple, and dresses less elegant, while at the price of this small 
privation we shall deserve your benedictions. Who among 
us will not renounce with the highest pleasure, those vain 



KEVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 51 

ornaments, when she shall consider that the valiant defenders 
of America will be able to draw some advantages from the 
money she may have laid out for these, that they may be better 
defended from the rigours of the seasons ; that, after their 
painful toils, they will receive some extraordinary and unex- 
pected relief, that these presents will be valued by them, at a 
greater price, when they will have it in their power to say, 
this is the offering of the ladies. The time is arrived to dis- 
play the same sentiments which animated us at the beginning 
of the Revolution, when we renounced the use of teas, however 
agreeable to our taste, rather than receive them from our 
persecutors ; when we made it appear to them, that we placed 
former necessaries in the rank of superfluities, when our 
liberties were interested ; when our Republican and laborious 
hands spun the flax and prepared the linen intended for the 
use of our soldiers. When exiles and fugitives are supported 
with courage, all the evils which are the concomitants of war, 
let us not lose a moment — let us be engaged to offer the 
homage of our gratitude, at the Altar of Military Valor. And 
you, our brave deliverers — while mercenary slaves combat, to 
cause you to share with them the irons with which they are 
loaded — receive with a free hand our offering — the purest 
which can be presented to your virtue, by 

AN AMERICAN WOMAN." 



The American Army were rarely supplied with decent 
clothing, and too frequently suffered from the absolute want 
of food ; yet, a devotion to the cause in which they had 
embarked, preserved their principles unshaken, and it was 
rare indeed that a single murmur was heard. In 1780, the 
miseries against which they had to contend were at their 
height. The cup of misfortune was filled to an overflow. — 
The resources of the country were scarcely adequate to allow 



m 



S2 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

a scanty supply of provision, and the vigilance and activity of 
the enemy's cruisers on the coast, destroyed every hope of 
receiving a supply of clothing from abroad. The safe arrival 
of a merchant vessel was considered a miracle. No prospect 
of relief remained to the distressed troops, but from the exer- 
tions of benevolence which might induce their fellow-citizens, 
not immediately in the field, to open their purses, and from 
their domestic stores afford a portion of what might be most 
conveniently spared. The patriotism of the inhabitants of the 
city of Philadelphia, had already, and on more than one occa- 
sion, been put to the test. Blankets and clothing had been 
liberally supphed to the soldiery. But, the complete extinc- 
tion of trade, had exhausted whatever might have been pos- 
sessed of superfluities, and destroyed the ability to bestow what 
would otherwise have been tendered with cheerfulness. — 
The pressure of the times however, required that one more 
experiment should be made, and a Matron of Philadelphia,* 
by a pathetic address to her sex, very happily accomplished 
what had previously been deemed impracticable. Her pro- 
posal to make collections among the citizens of the town and 
Northern Liberties was adopted, and immediately carried 
into effect. A requisition for shirts, was, by the active exer- 
tions of the Committee of Ladies, making the collections, 
immediately complied with. Six hundred and twenty-five 
pounds in specie, and $200,680 in paper currency, were 
rapidly subscribed, and paid into the fund. Great as the 
relief must have been to the suffering soldiery, T am altogether 
of opinion with a writer in the papers of the day, " that 
more beneficial consequences resulted to the cause of liberty." 
The idea of favour and affection discovered in the exertion of 
the fair daughters of America, operated like a charm on the 
soldier's heart; it gave vigour to exertion, confidence to his 
hopes of success, and the ultimate certainty of victory and 

^ Mrg. Read. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 53 

peace. The Ladies of Trenton, in Jersey, imitating the noble 
example of their Philadelphia friends, were entitled to equal 
honour. Mrs. Elizabeth Read, the lady of General Joseph 
Read, the then President of the State, appears to have acted 
the most conspicuous part, throughout the entire transaction ; 
unhappily she did not long survive her honourable agency, as 
it appears from the annexed letter from General Washington 
to the Committee of Ladies, who presented the patriotic 
donation to the Army under his command. 

" New Windsor, Feb. 13th, 1781. 
" Ladies, 

" The benevolent office which added lustre to the quali- 
ties that ornamented your deceased friend, could not have 
descended to more zealous and more deserving successors. 

The contributions of the Association you represent, have 
exceeded what could have been expected, and the spirit that 
animated the members of it, entitles them to an equal place, 
to any that have preceded them in the walk of female patriotism. 
It embelishes the American character with a new trait, by 
proving that the love of country is blendid with these softer 
domestic virtues, which have always been allowed to be more 
particularly their own. You have not acquired admiration in 
your own country only — it is paid you abroad — and you will 
learn with pleasure by a part of your sex, where female 
accomplishments have obtained their highest perfection, and 
who, from the commencement, have been the patronesses of 
American liberty. The Army ought not to regret its sacri- 
fices, or its sufferings, when they meet with so flattering a 
a reward, as in the sympathy of your sex, nor can it fear that 
its interests will be neglected when espoused by advocates as 
powerful as they are amiable. 

I cannot answer to the sentiments which you do me the 
honour to express for me personally, tlian that they would 



i. 



'54 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

more than repay a life devoted to the service of the public, 
and to testimonies of gratitude to yourselves. 

Accept the assurances of the perfect respect and esteem^ 
with which I am, Ladies, 

Your most obedient and humble servant, 

GEORGE WASHINGTON. 

To Mrs. Francis, Mrs. Hillegas, Mrs. Clarhson^ 
Mrs, Bache, and Mrs. Blair. — Philadelphia. 



MRS. THOMPSON. 

The editor of the Quarterly Review, in his first number, 
says, "Major Garden, in his Anecdotes of the Revolution, has 
assigned a section to the ' Conduct of the Whig Ladies,' and 
certainly it is not the least engaging of the volume. Mrs. 
Thompson deserved more than a page in it." The opinion of 
this gentleman is, in itself, sufficient commendation to establish 
the claims of Mrs. Thompson to superior merit and patriotic 
virtue. With the exalted character of her husband, I am well 
acquainted, and proudly pronounce, that no man served the 
United States, for so long a period, preserving the unshaken 
confidence of Congress, and unceasing applause of the nation. 
W^ith respect to Mrs. Thompson, I am fully satisfied v^'ith the 
Eulogy pronounced on her by her husband ; it is sufficient 
panegyric to entitle her to universal respect : " She never 
complained of any inconvenience resulting from our situation, 
in consequence of the war, but did every thing in her power to 
lighten difficulties and assist me. The business in which I 
•was engaged, I was well aware was too confidential to be 
entrusted to a secretary ur clerk. She aided me with her pen, 
and the archives of the Revolution contains many interesting 
"pages of her copying." 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 55 



MRS. ARTHUR PERONNEAU, 

Is richly entitled to a place among the most distinguished of 
eur female patriots. The fortitude which she displayed 
during Provost's invasion, subjected to ever species of insult, 
(her residence being fixed on as the Head Quarters of the 
British Army,) is highly honourable to her. But in speaking 
of her merits, I would particularly dwell on her unremitted 
and affectionate attention to Colonel Hayne, her brother-in- 
law, during his confinement in prison, and till the day of his 
death. There was no consolation that could alleviate his 
sufferings ihat was not administered. Her sympathy assuaged 
the afflictions of present calamity, and pious confidence in the 
justice of a beneficent Deity, encouraged the hope of a crown 
of martyrdom awaiting his courage and his constancy. On 
the morning on which he was to die, her son, Mr. Wm. Peron- 
neau, then a youth of twelve years of age, was sent to him, to 
request that he would spare her the agony of a personal inter- 
view which she had not sufficient resolution to support. "Wil- 
lingly," he replied, " my dear boy. Tell her, that her 
generous efforts, to save me from an ignominious death, will, 
to my last hour, be remembered with gratitude, and that my 
confidence is perfect that we shall meet in a better and happier 
world." 



MRS. BRATTON, OF S. C. 

At a period, when an absolute want of arms and ammunition 
precluded, in a great degree, the possibility of effectual 
resistance, a small depot of powder was entrusted to Mrs. 
Bratton, wife of Colonel Bratton, an active officer, serving in 



56 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

the field. The treachery of an individual communicated the 
important secret to the enemy, and a British detachment was 
pushed forward to secure so valuable a prize. Mrs. Bratton, 
informed of their near approach, immediately laid a train of 
powder from the depot to the spot on which she stood, and 
seeing no chance of saving her charge blew it up. " Who" 
exclaimed the irritated officer who led the detachment, " has 
dared to do this atrocious act 1 Speak quickly, that they may 
meet the punishment they deserve." " Know then," said 
Mrs. B., " 'twas I — and let the consequence be what it will, I 
glory in having frustrated the mischief contemplated by the 
merciless enemies of my country." 



MISS NEWMAN. 

The anecdote which follows, gives strong evidence of the 
devotion of our Ladies to the cause of America, and the intre- 
pidity with which they supported it : — 

An unfortunate whig, flying before a party of the enemy, 
intent upon his destruction, rushed into the dwelling house of 
Mre. Trapier, and entering the apartment of Miss Newman, 
an inmate of the family, exclaimed — " Protect me, Madam, 
or T am lost." " Quickly conceal yourself," replied the lady, 
*' be silent, and rest assured, that I will do all that I can to 
sav(?you." She had scarcely time to compose herself, before 
admission was demanded from without, and an officer present- 
ing himself, insisted that the place of concealment to which 
the fugitive had retired should be immediately pointed out. — 
"It is litvle probable," said Miss Newman, " that a soldier, 
to whom I am probably altogether unknown, would, even 
under the terrors of death, seek security by intruding himself 
into my chamber, but, as I am confident that no credit will be 
given to my assertions, and that the power of search rests with 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 57 

you, its indulj^ence must necessarily follow. Yet, I trust, from 
your character as a soldier, and appearance as a gentleman, 
with the delicacy due to a lady's feelings." The composure 
so happily assumed, calmed the violence of the party, and 
the officer, believing that it could alone be exhibited from an 
entire ignorance of the hiding place of the object of his pursuit, 
bowed and retired. 



MRS. GANNETT, OF SHARON. 

^he Dedham Register, of December, 1820, states: Mrs. 
Gannett, of Sharon, in this county, presented at Court, her 
claims for services rendered her country as a Revolutionary 
Soldier. This extraordinary woman is now in the 62d year 
of her age. She was about eighteen when the war with Bri- 
tain commenced. The patriotic sentiments that inspired the 
heroes of those days, and urged them to battle, found their 
way to her bosom. The news of the carnage at Lexington 
had reached her — the sound of the cannon at Bunker's Hill 
had vibrated in her ears, and increased beyond control her 
enthusiasm in the cause of liberty. She quitted her home, 
and the habiliments of her sex, and enlisted in the army under 
the name of Robert ShirtlifFe. For three years she performed 
the duty of a soldier, and during the whole time enjoyed the 
confidence of her officers, and unremitted favour by her 
expertness in exercise, and exemplary good conduct. She 
served as a volunteer in several hazardous enterprizes, and 
was twice wounded by musket balls. So well did she contrive 
to conceal her sex, as to escape all suspicion, till at length a 
severe wound, which had well nigh closed her earthly cam- 
paigns, occasioned the discovery. On her recovery she 
quitted the army, married, and is now the mother of several 
children. There were many witnesses in the Court, who 
recognized her, and were ready to attest to her services. 



58 REVOLUTIOxNARY ANECDOTES. 



MRS. STEEL, OF SALISBURY, N. C. 

While the army of General Greene was retreating before 
that of Lord Cornwalhs, Dr. Read, who had the charge of 
the woundad prisoiiers taken at the Cowpens, was seated in 
an apartment, overlooking the prnicipal street in Salislmry, 
writing paroles, for such of the British officers as were unable 
from sickness and debility to proceed further on the route to 
Virginia, when General Greene, unattended, (his aids-de- 
camp, being engaged on different services,) rode up to the 
door, jaded and fatigued, and in fact exhausted to such a 
degree, as with difficulty to dismount from his horse. " How 
do you find yourself, my good General," kindly inquired the 
Doctor. " Wretched beyond measure," replied the General, 
** without a friend — without money, and destitute even of a 
companion." "That I deny" said Mrs. Steel, the patriotic 
lawd-lady, stepping forward with great alacrity. *' That I 
most positively deny. There exists no cause for such de^pon- 
dencyr In me, General, you have a devoted friend. Money 
I have in possession, and money you shall liave. This 
young g( ntleman will not, I am certain, suffer you to be with- 
out a companion as soon as the humane business about which he 
is employed is finished. Come with me in the interim and I 
will freely give you the money you require." The General 
followed her into an adjoining apartment, and speedily re- 
turned, every pocket filled with gold, which this benevolent 
and truly patriotic lady had pressed upon him. The name ©f 
such a woman should be recorded in letters of gold. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 59 



POETICAL ADDRESS. 

The following^ complimentary address to the Ladies, who 
so djijgently strove to give the comforts of food and clothing to 
the distressed Soldiery, should not be lost. It contains some 
good lines and a great deal of excellent sentiment. The 
encomiums bestowed are particularly appropriate : — 

All hail, superior Sex — exalted Fair, 
Whose smiles dispel the gloom of dark despair,. 
Bid the keen anguish of affection cease, 
And to the wounded bosom whisper peace. 
Accept the tribute of our warmest praise, 
To yovi the Soldier yields the Patriot's bays; 
The Palm of Fame no longer he conrests, 
Justly decreed to grace the Female breast. 
Whilst cherished prejudice remains unarm'd 
And e'en pale Envy's into silence charmed — 
Freedom no more shall droop her languid head, 
Nor dream supine on Sloth's lethargic bed. 
No more sif weeping o'er the vet'ran 1 and. 
The brave and sntf 'ring heroes of the land, 
Who nobly daring the proud Despot's sway^ 
liive the admired wonders of the day. 
For to these sons the glorious work renew 
Their hopes, their energies, revived by you. 
Your gifts more precious in the iSoldier'seye 
Than all the v/ealth Potosi's mines supply. 
For while his heart with gratitude expands, 
Cheer'd by the liberal bounty of yo>i)- hands, 
His pray'rs for you in benedictions rise, 
Warm from the soul and grateful to the skies. 
Nor there's alone the theme th' Historian fir'd 
Shall bless the noble ardor you've inspired. 
I want new epithets to adorm his page, 
And bid you live admlr'd from age to age. 
With warm applauses celebrate each name, 
Endear your mem'ries and embalm your fame, 
For Freedom's Ensign, thus inscribed, shall ave, 
" The Patriot Females who their Country saved." 

ANON. 



60 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



PATRIOTS IN THE CIVIL LINE. 



ARTHUR MIDDLETON. 

I know no man, whose exemplary conduct, throughout 
the whole prog-ress of the Revolution, deserves more 
gratefully to he reraemhered, than that of Arthur Middle- 
ton. Possessed of ample fortune, and endowed with 
talents of the highest order, improved by study, and refined 
by travellin2[, he devoted himself with decision to the 
service of his country. The public, at the commencement 
of hostility, admirinj^his zeal, and convinced of his since- 
rity, placed in him their entire confidence, and never 
afterwards withdrew it. He served with distinction in the 
Committee of Five,* expressly appointed by the Provincial 
Congress to procure the means of defence, superintend, 
the political movements of their fellow-citizens, give 
energy to the spirit of resistance, and direct with effect 
inflexible opposition to the encroachments of tyrannical 
power.t He, on all occasions, advocated the most vigorous 
m(^asures, clearly evincing that he was not one of those, 
who shrunk in times of danger from responsibility. Frank 
and open in temper, he freely uttered the bold conceptions 
of his ardent spirit, censuring with indignant pride the 

* Composed of Wm. H. Drayton, Arthur Middleton, Charles Cotes- 
worth Pinckney, William Gibbes, and Edward Weyman. 

t The arrest of the Governor. The attachment of the estates of all 
who deserted the Standard of their Country, &c. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 61 

cautious policy of the timid and irresolute, and expressing 
the highest indignation at the arts of the designing. His 
zeal thus manifested, confirming the confidence first 
reposed in him, he was elected, though scarcely thirty 
years of age, a member of the Continental Congress of 
1775, and thus obtained the honour of afiixing his signature 
to the important document, which is regarded by Ameri- 
cans as their richest inheritance. Returning to his native 
State, new honours awaited him ; he was soon elected to 
fill the Chair of Government, vacated by the resignation of 
John Rutledge. The honour, was, however, declined for 
reasons which proved satisfactory to the public. But, 
whether in arms for the defence of the city, in exile in 
St. Augustine, or aiding in the Councils of the Nation- 
after his release from captivity — we find him with unshaken 
ardour, by his firmness and undeviating rectitude of princi- 
ple, giving dignity to the cause he had pledged himself to 
support.* Shortly after the surrender of Charleston, (I 
think it was on the receipt of the news of Lord Cornwallis' 
victory near Camden, over the army commanded by Gen. 
Gates,) some of the most influential and zealous Loyalists, 
considering it a happy opportunity for displaying devotion 
to their Sovereign, proposed an Address of congratulation 
to the ruling Authorities, and appointed a committee to 
tender it to the inhabitants of the garrison, for signatures. 
"Dead to all sense of delicacy, these unfeeling men waited 
on Mr. Middleton, and prefacing the demand by dwelling 
on the inability of resistance on the part of the rebels, 
tendered to him the Address for signature. Virtuous re- 
sentment kept him for a moment dumb ! but as soon as indig- 
nant passion had suflaciently subsided, to give his feelings 
utterance — *' Begone," he cried, " and from your sight re- 

* It was the signing of this Address which caused the confiscation of so 
many estates at an after period. 

6 



62 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

lieve me ! Have you no feeling', wretches, for misfortune, 
or respect for honest zeal, and faithful service 1 Is it in 
scorn you are come to wreak your malice, on the man v/iio 
always held your principles and practices in detestation'? 
or, can you imaj»in , that after siepp iig fiirtli in such a 
cause, and supporting it through every danger and difficulty 
with steadiness, I will meanly retract, and ^tamp my name 
with infamy — Suhject myself, not only to the contempt of 
the world, but the still greater misery of endless and 
agonizing reproach ? No no! it is a mockery that you 
would add to insult; and cowardly, as well as basely, 
knowing the restrictions of my parole, shield yourselves 
beneath its protection. This is, to t/oUj a^lay of exaltation, 
but the hour of retribution tcill come when we shall meet 
on a more equal footing. Enjoy, meanwhile, your mise- 
rable triumph — bnt, from this room, and my presence^ 
miscreants, retire instantly, and when the liberty is mine to 
express the just indignation that 1 feel — beware P^ 

It gives me great satisfaction to add another proof of 
Mr Middleton's devotion to his country, communicated 
subsequently to the completion of the sketch of his charac- 
ter. After his arrest and removal to a ship of war, to be 
conveyed, with many otlier distinguished patriots, to 
St. Augustine, two youths,* under the age of eighteen years, 
at the period prisoners on parole, anxious to mitigate the 
sufferings of their relatives, whose sudden separation from 
their families, and removal to a prison-ship, had deprived 
them of every comfort, ventured with a i'ew necessaries to 
repair to the place of their confinement. The pious duty 
performed, they were about to return to the city, when 



* Hon. A. Desaussure, since Chancellor of the State, and Tames Hey. 
ward, at a subsequeat period a Gaptaiu in the Ancient Battalion of Ar- 
tillery. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 63 

Mr. Middletoji, takins^them aside, thus addressed them: — 
*' You see, young; gentlemen, the tyranny exercised towards 
your seniors, whose only crime consists in their unshaken 
fidelity to their country. Your turn may probably come 
next. You have already felt the evil hand of oppression 
bear heavily upon you, and have, doubtless, many and still 
severer persecutions to endure. Be firm in your attach- 
ment to the cause to which you have adhered. Let neither 
the temptation of promised honours, nor emolument, the 
fear of personal suffering, the rigor of confinement, nor 
any oppression that may await you, tempt you to swerve 
from your duty. Firm in patriotism, bid defiance to every 
persecution that malice can contrive and power inflict. 
Great and certain will be your reward. You will find it 
in the consciousness of well-doing — in the applause of 
your own hearts — and in the blessings that will follow you, 
from the gratitude of every virtupus citizen of your coun- 
try." 

It is creditable to the family, that the name of Middleton 
was ever found opposed to the encroachments of British 
power. Arthur Middleton, grandfather to the subject of 
this sketch, headed, as Speaker of the Assembly, an oppo- 
sition which removed the last of the Proprietory Governors. 
Henry Middleton, his father, was the successor of .John 
Hancock as President of Congress. Arthur Middleton, 
signed the Declaration of Independence. Henry Middle- 
ton, his son, officiated as Governor of the State of South- 
Carolina, and was one of the most determined opponents 
of Britain, when that ambitious nation, on a late occasion, 
sought to disturb the happiness and prosperity of our 
country. Thomas Middleton, son of an elder branch of 
the family, residing in England, engaged heartily in the 
American cause, and was constant in his duty, till his death. 
John Middleton, who not only enjoyed an estate in Eu- 



64 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

rope, but had the advowson of a church-living of considera- 
ble emolument, actuated by a sincere attachment to liberty, 
crossed the Atlantic to engage in the American service, 
speedily obtained by his gallantry, a commission in Lee's 
legion, and possessing the universal esteem of his fellow- 
citizens, fell a martyr, shortly after the war, to country-fe- 
ver, sincerely lamented by all who had the happiness of his 
acquaintance. 



THOMAS HEYWARD. 

A patriot more resolute in council — more intrepid in the 
field — more steady in supporting the principles of the 
Revolution, under the severest afflictions of unmerited 
persecutions, could not be named than Mr. Hey ward. — 
His was the honour of giving his signature to the instru- 
ment that declared America independent. In his military 
career, he essentially contributed to the defeat of the 
British on Port Royal Island, and of having repulsed 
Provost before Charleston. He was actively employed on 
the lines when Sir Henry Clinton besieged the city, and at 
its fall became a prisoner to the enemy. The indignities 
which he then met with were in the extreme disgraceful to the 
victorious party, but as I have already recorded them in my 
first series, it appears unnecessary to repeat them. He was 
distinguished among the patriotic band, who were sent 
into exile to St. Augustine ; — by a playfulness of disposi- 
tion, which not only made despondency a stranger to his 
bosom, but which was happily displayed in keeping up the 
spirits of his suffering companions. He wrote songs of 
humour, and sung them with peculiar glee, and although 
little can be said in favour of their poetical merit, yet, in 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 65 

his satirical remarks on false patriotism,* and animadver- 
sions on the foibles of the tyrants, who oppressed them, 
he not only amused his companions, and imparted to them 
a portion of his own cheerfulness, but caused them to 
check unavailing murmurs, and to look forward with confi- 
dence, to the happy termination of their sufferings, and 
the perfection of their country's glory and happiness. I 
am inclined to give great credit to Mr. Heyward, for his 
clear and early perceptions of the happy results that would 
follow, from bold and unremitted exertions against the 
encroachments of Britain. On his return from Congress, 
his father, who was not altogether as sanguine in his 
calculations of success as he had been, said to him, "My 
son, in declaring America independent, you have adopted 
a very bold measure, and I am inclined to think, with 
precipitation, since undisciplined militia, and we have no 

* An individual, who delighted to proclaim the purity of his patriotic 
principles, and the steadiness with which he considered his honour as 
pledged to support them, was frequently heard to say, " Should it ever 
be my misfortune to fall into the hands of the enemy, though subjected 
to every species of insult, and goaded by every variety of oppression— 
though imprisonment and chains, the dungeon's gloom and rack's tor- 
tures be my lot — though, in time, my legs and arms should be severed 
from my body, the Honest Trunk, (hat remained, would still be true and 
faithful, to the cause of liberty, and of my country." It is a dangerous 
thing for men to place too great confidence in their own strength, or to 
boast their ability to encounter and overcome difficulty, before the hour 
of trial has overtaken them. The town, in which this firm and intrepid 
patriot resided, being closely besieged and taken, to the astonishment of 
the commuinty, he was among the first of the capitulants, to recant his 
opinions, and to solicit with humility, forgiveness for his political errors, 
promising, if the ruling authorities would condescend to grant him pro- 
tection, that he would sin no more. His dereliction of principle, met 
with its proper reward, for, remaining in Charleston, after its evacuation 
by the British Garrison, he never walked the streets, or ventured to show 
his face in public, before his ears were saluted by the mockery of every 
school-boy, exclaiming, " there goes the Honest Trunk." How fares it 
with the unshaken patriot, and steady friend of his country, 

6* 



66 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

Other troops, can never resist the attacks of brave and 
well-trained regulars. We shall, inevitably, be beaten." 
"Granted," said Mr. H. " What, then, are we to doT' 
rejoined his fal*lier. " Raise a new army, and keep up the 
contest." " What ! to be again beaten." " Most certainly, 
and the same result may follow, over and over again, but, 
by dint of perseverance, we shall become reconciled to the 
evils of war, and daily acquiring expf^rience, in the military 
art, ultimately wrest the palm of victory from the enemy, 
and repay, with ten-fold energy, the defeats received at 
their hands." "He will tell you, in mockery of one of our 
country phrases, that it -is only necessary for them to show 
themselves, for our untutored bands, Ho split and squander.^ '* 
*'But, let us patiently wait the results of steady opposition, 
and then we shall see, * on whose side the laughers will be.' 
Remember, too. Sir, that every success that follows their 
exertions, will necessarily be attended with a loss of men, 
and that recruits can only be obtained by bringing them 
across the Atlantic, and that at an enormous expense, while 
the temporary defeat of our armies, produces no material 
evil, in this respect ; the very men, who fled with precipita- 
tion from the field to-day, being ready, and with the hope 
of getting rid of the disgrace, will resume a hostile position 
to-morrow." I repeat, that this happy view of the eventful 
occurrences of the war, just entered upon, was highly 
creditable to the discernment of Mr. Heyward, more 
especially as the results proved them to be altogether cor- 
rect, in every portion of the Union, before the termination 
©f the war. They, who had triumphantly over-run the 
Jerseys, Virginia, the Carolinas, and Georgia, being ulti- 
mately, (unless when under the immediate protection of 
their shipping they indulged in predatory expeditions,) 
confined to the narrow limits of the cities of New-York, 
Savannah, and Charleston. Mr. Hoyward, after the con- 
clusion of the war, was elected a Judge, and as a civil 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 67 

officer, from his clear, unbiassed decisions, gave increase 
to the reputation acquired by his zeal and activity in the 
field, when acting in a military capacity. 



JUDGE BEE. 

The claim, of this respectable citizen, to Revolutionary 
celebrity, is unquestionable. Through every period of the 
struggle for independence, he adhered to the cause of his 
country, with ardent zeal and unshaken constancy, and 
that he performed his duty with advantage' to it, must 
appear evident, from the situations of trust and honour to 
which he was raised by the voice of his fellow-citizens. 
The duties of Member of the Assembly, Speaker of the 
House of Representatives, Member of the Privy Council, 
Judge of the State Courts, Member of the Council of 
Safety, Lieutenant Governor, Member of Congress, and, 
finally. Judge of the District, were discharged by him with 
distinguished credit and applause. He was mild in dispo- 
sition, amiable and conciliating in his manners, and from 
his liberal feelings, afJorded, to the last hour of his life, a 
genuine portrait of Carolina hospitality. One trait of his 
cliaracter, merits particular notice : — He had suffered much 
by the war — his property had been in the hands of the 
enemy, and had not escaped the cupidity of many of them, 
noted for their rapacity in plundering, but his resentments 
ceased when they had no longer power to injure. Their 
departure from our shores extinguished his resentments. 
The unfortunate, who, by the errors of their conduct, had 
incurred the displeasure and resentment of their country- 
men, found in him a steady and a powerful advocate; he 
pitied their w^eaknesses, and anxiously strove to remove 
their disqualific:^.liouSj and to reconcile them to their 



63 RETVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

country and to themselves : and, I doubt, if a single instance 
can be brought forward, where pardon was solicited, where 
he did not plead the cailse of the offending party. A. 
bill for the encouragement of Literature and Science, 
introduced into the House of Representanves, immediately 
after the evacuation of Charleston, originated witk him. 
"Whilst every society, having a view and tendency to pro- 
mote the diffusion of knowledge, met in him a strenuous 
supporter; we may have seen in the distinguished personages 
of society, men of more brilliant character, but with none 
better entitled to the esteem and veneration of his country- 
men, than Judge Bee. 



RICHARD HUTSON. 

Mr. Hutson, at the commencement of the Revolutionary 
war, was possessed of a large and unencumbered estate, 
the whole of which he sold, the better to aid his country in 
her arduous struggle for liberty, by placing the product in 
the funds. His zeal did him hosiour, but proved his ruin; 
the depreciation of Conrinental money leaving him in 
poverty and indigence. His talents, however, (it was all 
he had to give,) were unceasingly devoted to the public 
welfare. As a soldier, lawyer, legislator, long as the war 
continued, he conducted himself with such propriety, that 
immediately after its conclusion, he was chosen one of the 
Three (Chancellors of the State. And on the incorporation 
of the city of Charleston, chosen its first Intendant. In 
this last station his conduct v/as exemijluy. Many turbu- 
lent spirits appeared intent to disturb the peace of society ; 
mobs were raised— some mischief done, and a great deal 
coi'tf mplated, but b? zeal, activity and firmness, he put 
down all irregularities, and preserved the tranquillity of the 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 69 

city. Mr. H. was an excellent scholar, and it is said com- 
pletely master of seven different languuges. He was mild 
and amiable in disposition, and to his friends and relations, 
one of the most kind-hearted and affectionate of human 
beings. They were inexpressibly dear to him, but he 
loved his country still more, as the sacrifice of his property 
clearly evinces. In confirmation of what I have alleged 
of his patriotism, I have it in my power to state, that 
General C. C. Pinckney, often declaimed that he did not 
know an individual to whom Carolina was as much 
indebted, for active zeal, and perpetual sacrifices in her 
service. Praise from such a man, is sufficient eulogy, 
without the addition of a single sentence of commendation 
from my pen. For the penetration of the General, in esti- 
mating character, was singularly correct, and his upright- 
ness, when called on for the delivery of his sentiments 
upon it, would have caused him rather to lose his life, than 
utter a falsehood, or bestow the meed of praise on one, who 
had not richly deserved it. I have omitted to mention, 
that he was one of the exiles who was sent to St. Augus- 
tine ; the British were too well convinced of the influence 
of his precepts and example, to suiTcr him to remain in 
Charleston. Their grand object was to make converts, 
and to induce the weak and wavering to enlist under their 
banners ; pretexts were therefore found for depriving the 
true or steady patriots, who were within their powder, of 
the berieiits of the cnpituhition under which they had be- 
come prisoners, and to treat them, not as gnntlemen^ but as 
felons, who were destitute of all sense of honour, and not 
entitled to the slightest share of pity or indulgence. At 
St. Augustine, they would be comparatively harmless, and 
thither they were sent. 



^0 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



AMERICAN OFFICERS-MILITARY AND NAVAL. 



GENERAL GEORGE WASHINGTON. 

It may appear extraordinary, that in giving sketches of 
the characters of the heroes and patriots, the most distin- 
guished in the Revolutionary war, that I have never 
particularly noticed, the man ahove all others, pre-eminent 
in talent and in virtue; and whose clear ptrceptions, in a 
great measure, directed the energies of the rest. It cannot 
be doubted, but that my allusion is to the immortal Wash- 
ington, who, by universal consent, has been acknowledged, 
not only the pride and glory of his country, but an hoaour 
to the human race. But, already, all that relates to his 
character and conduct, in private life, the field, or cabinet, 
has been detailed by our historians so fully and skilfully, 
that nothing that I could say, would afford an additional 
claim to celebrity. I think, however, that ray admiration 
of his character has been sufficiently elucidated throughout 
the whole of my Anecdotes. The expression of General 
Gates, made in the presence of Dr. Read,* gives a striking 
instance of the goodness of his heart — his generous inclina- 
tion to forgive injuries, (for he was well-apprized of all the 
secret intrigues of Gates, to injure him, and disposses him 
of command,) his sympathy in the heart-rendino: afflictions 
that had fallen on his family. The humanity exercised 
towards Sir Charles Asgill, (fully detailed in the present 

* Pages 34 and 35, First Series. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 71 

series of x\necdotes, althoucrh most ungenerously requited;) 
his pity for his suiierings, is not less creditable to his feel- 
in^j^r-. The delicate rebuke given to the g-entlcmea of his 
family, whose boisterous mirth di^sturbei the repose of a 
wounded officer,* at once declares his discretion and keen 
sense of propr ety. The friendly visit to Colonel Wasson, 
his solicitude for his recovery, and grateful acknowledg- 
ment of his services, his worth, and usefulness to the army, 
excite high admiration. The anecdote related in the pre- 
sent series, of his temperance, and happy mode adopted, 
to quiet the discontents of the army, remonstrating by a 
deputation of tield oi.'icers, against the badness and scarcity 
of their rations. The delicacy of his feeling towards the 
foe he had subdued,t do him the highest honour. With 
high admiration 1 view his clear discernment of character, 
in the enrloyment of Lt. Colonel Jo. Laurens, as a nego- 
tiator; of Wayne, for effecting a hazardous enterprize by a 
coup de main — of Harry Lee and M'Lean, as vigilant and 
active partizans — of William Washington, as a soldier, 
well calculated to execute services the most daring — of 
Stuben, to perfect discipline in the army — of La Fayette, 
to command where caution was necessary to avoid a regu- 
lar action with a foe greatly superior to him in numbers, 
and, at the same tiine, wlien spirit was necessary to keep him 
in check, — and, finally, his ciioice of Greene, to take the 
command of the Sonthern army, to restore their courage and 
rekindle their expiring efforts. x\ll of which notices pro- 
claim a genius of superior cast ; a penetration rarely 
e(]ualled. Of neglect, then, I shall scarcely be accused, 
wheie such proof has been given, t'jat no man, in a higher 
degree, knew how justly to appreciate the exalted talents 
and virtues of the immortal Washington. 



Page 393, First Series. t Page 394, First Series. 



72 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



PENNSYLVANIA OFFICERS. 

Biographical sketches of the superior officers of the 
PeniKo.ivauia line, have been so skiliuUy drawn by their 
immediate friends and contem^^oraries, that any additional 
notice of their services from my pen, might appear super- 
fluous. To the Generals, Butler, Walter Stuart, Sin- 
clair and Wayne, I had the honour to be personally 
known, and was immediately unJer the comjnand of the 
last, when, at the period of its evacuation by the British, 
betook possession of Charleston. General Butler, was, 
from the commencement to ihe end of his military career, 
considered as an officer of superior talent. Much of the 
celebrity of Morgan's Rifle Regiment, (declared by General 
Burgoyne, to be the finest marksmen in the world,) was 
derived from his skill in training, and example in leading 
them to victory. Walter Stuart, an Irishman by birth, 
was enthusiastically devoted to the cause of liberty, and 
supported it with the characteristic bravery of his country- 
men. Sinclair, possessed all the requisite qualities for 
command, and had he been properly supported, would 
never have suffered the British to boast the triumphs, 
which crowned the early progress of their army, led on by 
Burgoyne. W^ayne, was a complete soldier, delighting in 
enterprize, intelligent in all emergencies in the perception 
of his duties, intrepid in the discharge of them. Such, 
indeed, was his chivalrous gallantry, that anticipations of 
success were always cherished by the soldiers under his 
command, and led by Blad Anthony, (the name by which 
he was designated.) The order to engage the enemy, was 
considered as a prelude to victory. Bold in all his efforts 
to compel his enemy to submission, his moderation in the 
hour of triumph, was exemplary. At Stoney Pointy as soon 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 73 

as resistance ceased, there was an end to slaughter, and it cer- 
tainly redounds to his honour, when the hope of conquest was 
relinquislipd by the British, and a disposition was manifested 
to quit our shores, that he was opposed to the unnecessary 
waste of lives, and preferring negotiation to actual hostility, 
acceded to the proposals of the Generals Clarke and Leslie, 
and took possession, both of Savannah and Charleston, with- 
out the loss of a man. 



GENERAL WILLIAM IRVINE. 

I now beg leave to notice an officer of peculiar merit, 
"whose claims to applause have never, in my opinion, been 
sufficiently appreciated. I allude to General Wai. Irvine, a 
a native of Ireland. He received while a student at Trinity 
College, Dublin, through the influence of a lady of quality, a 
commission in a Regiment of Dragoons, but meeting with 
injustice in a contest with a brother officer, relative to rank, 
he gave in his resignation, and assiduously applying himself 
to the medical profession, was appointed a Surgeon in the 
Navy, and served in that capacity till the peace of 1763. A 
strong attachment to America, contracted in the course of 
service, causing him to emigrate to Pennsylvania, in 1764, he 
settled at Carlisle, and with great advantage to the public, and 
credit to himself, engaged in the practice of physic. The 
contest with Great Britain commencing in 1774, he engaged 
with ardent zeal, in the service of his adopted country, and 
after having essentially contributed to the dissemination of 
pure and genuine principles of liberty among his fellow- 
citizens, and inducing Pennsylvania cordially to join the 
Union, for tlie support of the just rights of America, accepted 
the command of a Regiment, and marched at its head into 
Canada. An unsuccessful attack upon the van of the enemy's 

7 



74 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

army, at the village of Trois Revieres, was the occasion of 
his absence for a considerable period, iVom military service ; 
for, the corps in which he served, under General I'hompson, 
being defeated, he became a prisoner. The conduct of Sir 
Guy Carlton, to the captive officers of the American array, 
has been generally and deservedly applauded, but towards 
Colonel Irvine, it was inflexibly severe, whether from caprice, 
or from an opinion, that he, who had once served under the 
British banners, should, under no circumstances, have drawn 
his sword in opposition to them, is uncertain. But, the indul- 
gences granted to others, were denied to him ; his side-arms 
were taken from him, and so many impediments thrown in 
the way of his liberation, that it was not till the year 1778, 
that his exchange could be effected. He then took the com- 
mand of the 2d Pennsylvania Brigade, and rendered essential 
service at the head of it, till detaclied in 1781, to Pitts- burg, to 
protect it, being charged at the same time wiih the defence of 
the Morth-Western frontier, threatened by the British and 
Indians, with invasion, liis prudence, while engaged in this 
important service, cannot be loo highly commended. By his 
moderation he effectually quieted the differences existing 
between the States of Virginia and Pennsylvania, and by 
attention to the discipline of the corps which he commanded, 
and indefatigable care in collecting provision, military stores, 
and every requisite for defence, in all probability saved Fitts- 
buro" from a similar calamity to that which fell so heavily on 
the settlement at Wyoming. He was subsequently highly 
instrumental in bringing to reason the disaffected in what has 
been called the Whiskey Insurrection, and finally closed \n3 
hfe of usefulness, in 1804, in the sixty-third year of his age, 
performing, at that period, the duties of Superintendant of 
Military Stores, and acting as President of the State Society of 
Cincinnati. I shall only add, in confirmation of my own 
geutiments, the opinion of the General, forwarded to me from 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTE^. 75 

the pen of an inestimable friend,* who enjoyed his confidence, 
and served for several years in Jiis fimily, as his aid-de-camp. 
" III spite of the indignities heaped on him by General Carl- 
ton, he never failed to speak with hioh commendation of his 
military talents, declaring, that although we owed much to 
the blunders of their Generals, in the achievement of our In- 
dependence, we owed still more to the British Minister, vt^ho 
superseded Carlton in command, giving the conduct of the 
war to a leader of very inferior ability. To General Wash- 
ington, I knew him to be devoted, and on the best grounds 
assert, that the reciprocity of opinion on the part of the Com- 
mander-in-chief, was as flattering to General Irvine, as he 
could have wished. In Council, his sentiments were generally 
approved and considered as orthodox. He was not a man of 
many words, but he wrote w^ell. In his habits and manners, 
he appeared forbiddb.g and austere, but under that exterior 
possessed unbounded benevolence, and executed all the duties 
of his station as Commander of the 2d Pennsylvania Brigade, 
ii'ith unremitted industry, and to the satistaction of all serving 
under his authority. The simplicity of his fare, (while the 
tables of other Generals were abundantly supplied) contenting 
himself witli bread and milk, or, perchance, a salt herring, was 
believed by many to proceed from extreme parsimony, but I 
knew the contrary. He was the declared friend of temper- 
ance, and well knew, that example in recommending it, w^ould 
have far greater influence than precept, superadded to which, 
it was his decided opinion, that the fare of the officer should 
not be of a superior quality to that of the soldier, with equal 
ardour, contending for the liberties of his country. In short, 
should I become his hiograjiher, I would proclaim him, in 
addition to the possession of great strength of mind — brave, 
patriotic, persevering, liberal, and humane. Need there more 
bo said, to portray the distinguished Soldier 1 Certainly not/' 

" Major Gibbon, of Richmond. 



•76 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



ALLEN M'LEAN, OF DELAWARE. 

I know of no individual, of his rank in the army, who 
engaged in such a variety of perilous adventures, or who, so 
invariably brought them to a happy issue, as Allen M'Lean. 
A brief statement of his services, will best demonstrate his 
merits as a soldier, and claims to public favour as a zealous 
and inflexible patriot. At the commencement of the Revolu- 
tion, he possessed a comfortable independency, holding in the 
city of Philadelphia, in houses and lots, property, equal in 
value to fifteen thousand dollars, the whole of which he sacri- 
ficed in the service of his country. At the very commence- 
ment of hostihties, we find him stepping forward as a volunteer. 
Persuaded, from the ardent temper and strong prejudices of 
Lord Dunmore, that an appeal to arais would speedily occur 
in Virginia, he particularly directed his attention to that quar- 
ter, and witnessed the repulse of the British at the Great 
Bridge. This early dawn of success giving increase to his 
military ardour, his utmost efforts were exerted to fit himself 
for command, and in 1775, a lieutenant's commission was 
presented to him, in a Militia Regiment, commanded by the 
Hon. Caesar Rodney, of Delaware. In 1776, he joined the 
army under General Washington, near New- York. The 
battle of Long Island speedily occurring, afforded an op.portu- 
nity, which he eagerly embraced, to acquire distinction. Ob- 
serving the exposed situation of a British parly, he obtained 
from Lord Sterlino; the aid of a small detachment from the 
Delaware Regiment, made a lieutenant and eighteen privates, 
prisoners, and though surrounded by the enemy, led them olf 
in safety. He was present at the battle of the White Plains — 
witnessed the capture of the Hessifins at Trenton, and at 
Princeton, by liis good conduct and exemplary gallantry, so 
particularly attracted the attention of General Washington,, as 



mE VOLUTION ARY ANECDOTES. 77 

to be immediately appointed to a Captaincy in a Continental 
Reo^iment. — Sent into Delaware to recruit, he speedily rejoin- 
ed the army with ninety-four men, raised at his own expense, 
every shilling of the bounty-money being drawn from his 
pocket. On the march of the British arriiy from the head of 
Elk, the particular duty assigned him was, to annoy them, 
which he did with effect, but at the expense of a lieutenant 
killed, and a considerable number of his men. Philadelphia 
being possessed by the British, after the battles of Brandy- 
wine and Germantown, the important duty was assigned to 
him by the Commander-in-chief, to watch the movements of 
the enemy, to protect tlie whig inhabitants, (as much as prac- 
ticable) rcfiding near the lines, and to prevent the disaftected 
from carrying j^upplies to the city. The results evinced the 
prudence of the measure. M'Lean was vigilant and active, 
and remarkably prudent, though possessed of the most daunt- 
less intrepidity. On the very first night of service, he took 
three spies, fifteen Briti^sh soldiers who had quitted the city in 
search of plunder, and twelve tories, carrying in supplies to 
the enemy. A discovery of the highest importance immedi- 
diately followed. On the 3d of December, 1777, intelligence 
was communicated to him by a female, who, under some 
frivolous pretext, had passed the British lines, " that the 
enemy were to leave the city on the ensuing night, in hopes 
to surprise the Camp of General Washington, at White 
JRIarsli." Prompt in communicating this information to the 
Commander-in-cliief, his immediate care was to intercept the 
progress of the foe. A position was accordingly taken near 
Germantown ; when, so v^ell-dn-ected a fire was opened upon 
their front, tliat the British, supposing a considerable force at 
hand, desisted in tlje attempt to proceed further, and immedi- 
ately formed a line of battle. Recovering, however, from 
their fust surprize, they moved on in three columns, and about 
day-dawn appeared iu front of the American encampment. — 
For two days they occupied this position, when Gen. Morgan, 

7* 



78 REVOLUTIO]\ARY ANECDOTES. 

drivinj^in their pickets on the riglijt, and General Washin^ou, 
making arrangements for a general attack, they struck their 
tents and precipitately returned to the city. 

The service rendered to the Marquis De La Fayette, in the 
following month of May, was no less important. Entrusted 
by General Washington with a separate command, that as- 
piring soldier had taken post at Barren Hill Church. A 
triator giving intelligence of his situation to General Howe, 
the Generals, Grant and Erskine, with five thousand picked 
men, were ordered to gain his rear, while General Grey, 
marched forward to attack him in fiont, and prevent his cross- 
ing the Schuylkill. The capture of two Grenadiers brought 
to M'Lean the first intelhgence of the movement, which left no 
doubt on his mind, but that to strike at the Marquis, was the 
object of the expedition. Grant, accomplished his object, but 
finding his troops much fatigued by a night-march of twenty 
miles in a few hours, thought proper to wait the approach of 
Grey. M'Lean reached Barren Hill about day-break, and 
imparted his apprehensions to General La Fayette, who could 
scarcely credit the report ; but it was speedily confirmed from 
many quarters, and particularly by Captain Stone, of the 
Militia, who, hearing the British as they passed his dwelling, 
leaped from a window, and ran naked across the country 
towards Barren Hill, till perfectly exhaustcfl, he met a friend, 
who took up the report and speedily conveyed it to the Mar- 
<|uis. There was no time for deliberation. The army was 
immediately led across the river at Marston's Ford. But, had 
Grant, in the first instance, pushed forward and occupied the 
strong grounds at the Ford, it is presumable that the com- 
mand of the Marquis, not half as numerous as his own, must 
have surrendered, or beesi destroyed. 

While General W^ashington lay at Valley Forge, M'Lean 
passed into the State of Delaware by his order, and render- 
ed essential service by collecting supplies for the army, which 
could not otherw'.se have been obtainid. Ke;:iuming Lis com- 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 79 

fiiand before Philadelphia, in 1778, he never failed to vex 
and harrass the enemy, till they evacuated the city, and hang- 
ing on their rear at the moment of embarkation, made one 
captain, a provost-mirshall, three sergeants, two corporals, 
and thirty-four privates, prisoners. During their retreat 
through the Jerseys, he never ceased to annoy them, and by 
his activity at Monmouth, gave increase to his well-earned 
reputation. 

He served under Mnjor Lee, both at the reduction of 
Paulus Hook, at which last named post, fifty prisoners 
were taken, and a gang of counterfeiters, who had imitated 
the Continent'il money, so exactly, that at the treasury the 
false could not be distinguished from the geimine bills. 

His conduct at the reduction of Stoney Point, deserves to 
be more particularly mentioned. Being ordered with a flag 
of truce, to conduct a Mrs. Smith to the post at Stoney Point, 
that lady having quirted it for the purpose of carrying some 
necessaries to her sons in New- York; he assumed the appear- 
ance of a simple countryman, and being politely received bj 
the British officers, did not fail, while conversing with them, to 
examine with a soldier's eye, the strength of the position, and 
the points at which it would be assailable, with the best pros- 
pects of success. His split shirt, and rille accoutrements, ap- 
pear to have particularly attracted the attention of a young 
officer, who said to him — " Well Captain, what do you think 
of our fortress — is it strong enough to keep Mister Washington 
out?" "I know nothing of these matters," replied M'Lean, 
*'I am but a woodsman, and can only use my rifle ; but, I 
guess the General (not Mister Washington, if you please) 
would be likely to think a bit, before he would run his head 
against such works as these. If I was a General, sure I am 
that I would not attempt to take it, though I had fifty thousand 
men." — "xVnd if," rejoined the officer, "General Washington, 
since you insist on his being styled General^ should ever have 
the presuinptioa to attempt it, he will have cause to rue his 



so REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

rashness, for this post is the Gibraltar of America, and defend- 
ed by British valour, must be deemed impresrnable." — " No 
doubt, no doubt," replied M'Lean, " but, trust me, we are 
not such dolts as to attempt impossibihties, so that, as Tir as 
we are concerned, you may sleep in security." On the night 
subsequent to this conversation, the post was attacked and 
carried. Colonel M'Lean assured me, that when reco^tiized 
by the officer, it would have been impossible to give a just idea 
of his surprise and confusion. The foily of his former boast- 
ing, appeared to rush on his mind with a peculiarly distrcssmg 
eftect, and he hastily retired, overwhelmed with shame and 
mortification. 

In June, 1781, entrusted with despatches of the highest 
importance by General Washington, to the Co;int de Grasse, 
he took the command of the Marines on board of the ship 
Conci-ress, mousiting twenty guns, and one hundred and forty 
men, and arrived at Cape Fraiicais in July ; there he found 
the Count holding a Council of War, the object of which was, 
to fix on proper measures for an immediote attack on the 
Island of Jamaica. But, before any definite arrangements 
could be made, the presence of Ptl'Lean was called for, that he 
mio"ht be examined relative to the preparations made in x\nie- 
rica, for a combined attack by the Allies and American army, 
on the British force in the Chesapeake. To the interrogato- 
ries proposed, he gave such satisfactory answers, and deve- 
loped such cheering prospects of success, that he was informed 
by the Count, soon as the Council broke up, that he would 
immediately proceed to America, and act as circumstances 
might require, until the hurricane months should have passed 
over. Returning home with this pleasing intelligence, the 
Congress fell in with the British sloop of war Savage, of 
twenty guns, and one hundred and forty men, engaged her, 
and after a desperate action of five glasses, succeeded in cap- 
turing her. The Congress lost her boatswain, carpeiiter, two 
master's mates, and fifteen of her crew ; the Savage, her 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 81 

tailing master, two midshipmen, and twenty-five o her crew. 
The victor)', so honourable to the flag of the United States, 
was attributed, in a j^reat degree, to the constant and well- 
directed fire of the marines. 

He was next ordered to take post near Sandy Hook, and 
being furnished with a barge to visit Long Island, was directed 
to communicate with jiersons from New-York, and having 
received from them the private signals of the British fleet sail- 
ing for the Chesapeake, for the relief of Lord Cornwallis, 
returned to the Jersey shore, embarked in a pilot-boat, and 
delivered them safely to the Count de Grasse. He then took 
his station on the lines before York, till the garrison sur- 
rendered. 

I could detail many other anecdotes relative to M'Lean, 
but what I have already written, is, in my estimation, amply 
sufficient to prove, that he was much relied on for his judg- 
ment, courage and integrity ; that he retained the confidence of 
the Commander-in-chief, the Board of War, and the General 
officers he acted with, to the end ; that he was in all the 
principal batries fought in the States of New- York, New- 
Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia ; that he served 
his country faithfully on water as well as land ; and, that 
although frequently contending with superior numbers, and 
exposed to every peril, he still extricated himself from difficulty, 
by the superiority of his courage and presence of mind, with 
distinguished eclat. 

I annex a copy of the Certificate of Service, presented to 
him at the conclusion of the war, by General Washington : — 

"Allen M'Lean, Esq., was appointed a Captain, in one of 
the additional Continental Regiments of foot, in 1777, and by 
activity and industry, soon joined the army, with a Free Com- 
pany. He commanded a party of observation, under my 
instructions, until July, 1779, when he was annexe 1, by a 
resolution of the Honourable Continental Congress, to Major 



82 REA^OLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

Lee's Legion, to command the Infantry. From the certificate, 
which Major M'Lean is possessed of, it appears that he was 
early active in the cause of his country, and from the time of 
his joining the Continental army, I can testify, that he distin- 
guished himself highly, as a hrave and enterprising officer. 
Previously to the siege of York, he v^as employed to watch the 
motions of the British army, near New- York, as well as in 
Virginia, and was entrusted witii dispatches of the first im- 
portance to His Excellency, Count De Grasse, which com- 
mission he executed with great celerity, and was afterwards 
very serviceable inreconnoitering and bringing intelligence of 
the strength and disposition of the British army and fleet in 
the Chesapeake. 

Given under my hand and seal, at Rocky Hill, near Prince- 
ton, November 4th, 1783. 

GEORGE WASHINGTON." 



On one occasion, doing duty near the British lines, finding 
his horse greatly fatigued, and himself much in want of rest 
and refreshment, he was retiring towards Germantown, when 
the enemy's cavalry appeared in view, and advancing with a 
rapidity that threatened to cut off the possibility of a retreat. 
The Commander of the British forces, perceiving that pursuit 
as a body would impede the celerity of movement, essential to 
success, selected two of his best mounted troopers, and ordered 
them to continue the chace, and use every possible exertion to 
make him their prisoner. The first of these approaching 
very near, called to M'Lean bv name, and ordered him to 
surrender, but he, preserving his presence of mind, drew forth 
the only pistol he possessed, and leveling it w.th effect, laid 
his adversary prostrate in the dust. The second now coming 
up, was, in turn, eagerly charged, and being struck from his 
hor^^e by the butt-tnd of the pistol that had disabled his com- 
panion, was incapacitated from using any further exertion. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 83 

M'Lean, continuing- his route, sought shelter in a swamp, 
where he remained in security, till the evening aiibrded him 
an opportunity of rejoining his command," 

My wish on the present occasion is, to speak only of the 
occurrences of the Kevoiutionary war, but I have in my 
possession, an interesting memoir from the pen of Colonel 
M'Lean, relative to the proceeding; o* the Army before Wash- 
ington, when taken and pillaged i»y Koss, the British General, 
that fills me both with grief atid astonishment. Briefly to 
notice it, the Colonel says : — 

" All was confusion — nothing like spirit — nothing like 
subordinatiou — universal coni}>laint for the want of food, 
the Militia going oft' in every direction to seek it. Men, badly 
arnu'd, being, in many instances, without flints in their mus- 
kets, and so completely without discipline, as to exhibit a far 
gnjuter resemblance to an armed mob, than an organized 
army. I most rehgiously believe, that if I had been at the 
head of three hundred men, such as I led on to the attack of 
Faukis Hook, or such as I had under my command, durino- 
the war of our Independence, I should have defeated General 
Ross, when he pressed General Winder over the Eastern 
Branch. Coniideut 1 am, that the enemy would never have 
reached Waslui gton, and America been spared the disgrace 
of beholding the British triumphantly possessing the Capi- 
tal." 



GENERAL ANDREW PICKENS. 

The following instance of cool and deliberate heroism, 
is given as illustrative of the military character of one of our 
distinguished partizan officers — General Andrew Pickens. 
Owing to the rude and wild state of the back country, in the 



84 REVOLUTIOiNARY ANECDOTES. 

Revolution, our Heroes of that section of country have not 
been as honourably known to posterity as they deserve. I 
am gratified that it has been put in our power, by the polite- 
ness of a friend, on whose information the most complete 
reliance can be placed, to throw some light upon the obscurity 
of those times and transactions. 

" In September, 1776, General Andrew Pickens, being 
then a Major, belonged to an army of two thousand men, 
composed of Regulars and Militia, commanded by Colonel 
Williamson, which was sent on an expedition against the 
Cherokees, who had been instigated by British emissaries, to 
wage a w-ar of extermination against the frontier inhabitants 
of the country, now composing Abbeville, Laurens and Spar- 
lanburgh Districts. When this army had proceeded into the 
Indian country, as far as the upper part of what is now 
Pickens District, it was halted for a day or two, either for rest 
or to gain intelligence. During this time. Major Pickens 
obtained permission to take twenty-five choice men, to scout 
and reconnoitre the adjacent country. He had not proceeded 
more than two miles, when, early in the morning, after cross- 
ing a stream, now called Liltle River, in passing through an 
old Indian field, along the margin of the stream, which was 
covered with a thick grass, four or five feet high, more than 
two hundred Indians, painted for war in the most hideous 
manner, were seen rushing down the point of a ridge, directly 
upon them, with their guns swinging in their left hands, and 
their tomahawks raised in their right; their leader animating 
and exhorting them not to fire a gun, but to tomahawk the 
wliJte men, for they were but a handful. Brennan, a half- 
breed, was one of the twenty-five, and he, understanding them, 
told what they said. Major Pickens and all his party were on 
foot, and he, as well as every otiier, had his trusty ritle. He 
ordered his men not to fire until he did, to take deliberate aim, 
and fire two at a tmie in succession, and to fall in the grass 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 85 

and load. Brennaii was by his side in front, and when the 
Indian chief approached within about twenty-five yards, he 
ai^d Brounan dved^ and two Indians fell; the fire of his other 
mxin was in succession, as directed, and equally effective. 
This invincible firmness, in so small a band, astonished and 
struck terror into the savage ru-nks, and tliey immediately 
recoiled upon each otiier, dropped their tomahaws, and resort- 
ing to their guns, gr idually fell back, and were picked out at 
leisure by the steady and unerring aim of this small band of 
firm Militia. After the first or second fire, Brennan was shot 
down, iiut few were killed or wouiided of the whites ; if 
they had not been brave men, and true, not one would have 
escaped. Major Pickeus, in heading in a hurry, soon choaked 
his gii5!, when he picked up BrGunali'^l aiid continued to use 
it wliiie the Indians were in reach. Il.)w many of them were 
killed, could not he known, as the Indians, in those times, 
always carried oif their dead, wiieuever they could, to prevent 
their enemies from acquiring their savage trophy, the scalp ; 
but, it was believed a great number were killed, in proportion 
to the nuiiiber of coinbuant.s opposed to theni. 

During the action, one of ihe men observed that there was 
a constant firing from behind a tree-root, and watching his 
0{)portu!iity when its occupaiit had to expose himself to take 
aim, shot him in the head, and when one of his comrades had 
taken up the dead body, and was making off with it, shot him 
also, with as much cooluess, as if he was shooting at a target, 
and they fell, one upon the other. The firing was heard at 
V/ilUan5Soo's cjisrip, when Major Pickens' youngest brotlier, 
Joseph, (killed at the Siege of '96,) who was a Captain, im- 
mediately summoned his followers, and hastened to his bro- 
ther's assistance. Dui, l)efore he could reach him, the Indians 
Were beaten back, aiid di;^persing, and fleeing to the neigh- 
bouring mountains. Captaai Pickens, was a man of great 
animation end zeal, and was often bold and loud in his f-buse 
and crimination of men, who were tardy in their movements 

8 



86 REVOLUTIOiNARY ANECDOTES. 

for the deliverance of his brother, accusing them of cow- 
ardice, but Major Pickens pacified and rebuked him for his 
warmth.'* 



BOYD'S DEFEAT AT KETTLE CREEK. 

The successes of the British in Georgia, had great influence 
in arousing the hostile spirit of the tories in the upper districts 
of South-Carolina, which had been smothered, but not extin- 
guished. They had been encouraged to embody themselves, 
and cross the Savannah River, where they were told, that by 
uniting themselves to the British Regulars, so great a supe- 
riority of force would be obtained, as to render resistance to 
the Royal Government abortive, and extinguish every symp- 
tom of rebelhon. A Colonel Boyd, a man of some influence, 
who had been effectually tampered with, undertook to be their 
leader, and actually marched some hundreds of them across 
the Cherokee Ford, into Georgia. A more motly crew were 
never collected, being composed chiefly of persons distinguish- 
ed by their crimes, and infinitely more anxious to plunder, 
and appropriate whatever of value they could lay their hands 
on to their own use, than to promote the good of the cause, 
and the interests of the Monarch, they professed to admire 
and to serve. Colonel Pickens, always on the alert, collected 
about three hundred well-affocted Militia, and immediately 
followed in pursuit. They had gained little or no advantage 
when he overtook them at Kettle Creek, where he attacked 
them with such impetuosity that after losing forty men, they 
became panic struck, and fled in every direction, leaving the 
whigs in possession of the battle-ground, and all the spoilg 
collected on their march. Had they siiccessfjilly joined their 
aUies, there is no saying where the mischief would have 
ended ; for^ there was an abundance of inflammable material 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. ^ 87 

left behind, and the example of Boyd, might speedily have 
been followed up, on a more extensive scale of revolt, and 
with more decided effect. The promptitude of Col. Pickens, 
therefore, in collectirio; men, and brin<yin«j the contest to so 
successful an issue, does him great honour, and cannot be too 
highly commended. The prisoners taken weie numerous, 
and seventy of them were condemned to die as traitors, but 
mercy tempered the exercise of rigid justice, and five only 
were executed. 



COLONEL L E. HOWARD, OF MARYLAND. 

When I first heard of the death of Colonel Howard, I was 
strongly impressed with the idea, that in the notice taken of 
his services, in my first series of Anecdotes, I had in no de- 
gree bestowed commendation adequate to his merits. But, in 
recording the single expression of General Greene, " Hoivard 
is as good an officer as the world affords,^'' I am satisfied 
that additional encomium is altogether unnecessary, and that 
although I might write volumes, I could not increase his 
claims to celebrity. It will not, however, be amiss to state, 
that he engaged in the military service of his country, at a 
very early period after the war had commenced, and while 
attached to the Northern army, was present at the battles of 
the White Planes, of Germantown, and of Monmouth. But, 
it was in the Campaigns of the South, that his valour and 
skill attained the acme of perfection. His was the honour of 
having first broken the line of the British army at the Cow- 
pens, by a charge of the bayonet ; a mode of warfare employed 
on many future occasions, and always with the most perfect 
success. Nor were his services less conspicuous in the bril- 
liant actions which followed at Guildford, Hobkirk's Hill, and 
Eutaw, in the last of whicli, he was so severelv wounded, as to 



88 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

be compelled to retire from the army. Colonel Howard, 
at the conclusion of the war, received eveiy honourable 
appointment in the Civil Establishment, that the gratitude of 
his State could bestow. When the aggressions of France 
occasioned a new army to Le raised for the security of our 
country, he received from the Commander-in-chief, General 
Washington, who knew how to appreciate his talents, the 
■appointment of Brigadier General, which, however, he was 
compelled to decline. I sh?:ll conclude this short notice of 
him, by giving a brief account of the battle of the Cowpens, in 
conformity to his own statement. His words are these : — 

" The Militia were formed in front of me, and the moment 
the British formed tlieir line, they shouted and made a great 
noise to intimidate, and rushed with bayonets upon the Militia, 
who had not time, especially the riflemen, to fire a second 
shot. The militia fell into our rear, and a part of them 
on my right flank, where they afterwards renewed the 
action. The British advanced until my regiment com- 
menced firing. I soon observed, as I had but about three 
hundred and fifty men, and the British about eight hundred, 
that their line extended much farther than mine, particularly 
on my right, where they were pressing forward to gain 
my flank. To protect it, I ordered the company on my 
right to change its front, so as to oppose the enemy on that 
flank. Whether my orders were not Will understood, or 
whether it proceeded from any other cause, in attempting this 
movement, some disorder ensued in this company, which 
rather fell back than faced, as I wished them. The rest of 
the line, expecting that a retreat was ordered, faced about and 
retreated, but in perfect order. This retreat was accidental, 
but was very fortunate, as we thereby were extricated from 
the enemy. As soon as the word was given to halt, and face- 
about, the line was perfectly formed in a moment. The 
enemy pressed upon us in rather disorder, expecting the fat(> 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 8^ 

of the day was decided. Tliey were, by this time, within 
thirty yards of us, with two field-pieces ; my men, with un- 
common coolness, gave them an unexpected and deadly fire. 
Observing that this fire occasioned some disorder in them, I 
ordered a charge, which was executed so promptly, that they 
never recovered. When I came up to the two pieces of artil- 
lery, which we took, I saw some of my men going to bayonet 
the man who had the match. He refused to surrender it, and 
I believe he would have suffered himself to have been bayo- 
netted, if I had not rescued him, rather than give up his 
match." 

One Anecdote I would add, which, though not Revolutiona- 
ry, merits to be recorded : — 

After the disasters at Washingt.)n, when the city of Balti- 
more was threatened, with the immediate horrors of war, a 
suggestion was made in the Committee of Vigilance and 
Safety, of which Colonel Howard was a member, that it would 
be the best course for the city to capitulate. He indignantly 
opposed the very mention of the proposition, declaring, that 
though the bulk of his property was at stake, and he had four 
sons in the field, he would rather behold his property reduced 
to ashes, and his sons vveltcring in their blood, than witness 
the adoption of a measure, so disgraceful to the honour and 
character of his country. 

.In the House of Representatives^ of the State of South- Car o~ 
Una^ January 25, 182S. 

E. S. Davis, of Abbeville, introduced the following pream- 
ble and resolutions which wf^xa unanimously adopted : — 

It becomes a grateful people to cherish and perpetuate the 
memory of the brave and the good, to remember with grati- 
tude tiieir services, and to prolit by their bright examples. 

8* 



90 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

The heroic band of the Revolution, who fought that we 
might enjoy peace, and conquered that we might inherit free- 
dom, deserve the highest place in the grateful affections of 
a free people. 

Amongst the master-spirits who battled for independence, 
we are to remember with veneration the late patriotic and 
venerable Colonel John Eager Howard. His illustrious 
name is to be found in the history of his country's sufferings 
and the annals of his country's triumphs. In the day of peril 
and of doubt, when the result was hid in clouds — when the 
rocking of the battlements was heard from Bunker's Hill to 
the plains of Savannah — when danger was every where, and 
when death mingled in the conflict of the warrior, Howard 
gtill clave to the fortunes of the struggling republic. Of all 
the characters whom the days of trial brought forth, few are 
equal, none more extraordinary. He was his country's com- 
mon friend, and his country owes him one common unextin- 
guishable debt of gratitude. South-CaroUna, with whose 
history his name is identified, is proud to acknowledge the 
obligation. 

In the chivalrous and hazardous operations of General 
Greene in Soulh-Carolina, Colonel Howard was one of his 
most efficient officers. 

On a certain occasion, that experienced General declared, 
that Howard merited a monument of gold, no less than Ro- 
man or Grecian heroes. At the battle of the Cowpens, says 
Lee, he seized the critical moment, and turned the fortune of 
the day. 

At Eutaw, and at Camden, he led the intrepid Maryland 
line to battle and to glory. 

But, in the course of human mortality, it has pleased the 
Almighty to remove him from among the few remaining as- 
sociates of his youth. 

Resolved, Therefore, that it was with feelings of profound 
sorrow and regret, that South-Carolina received tlie meian- 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 91 

oholy intelligence of the death of Colonel John Eager Howard, 
of Maryland. 

Resolved^ That the State of South-Carolina can never for^ 
get the distinguished services of the deceased. 

Resolved, That the Governor be requested to transmit a 
copy of these proceedings to the Governor of Maryland, and 
to the family of the late Colonel Howard. 



JOSHUA BARNEY, OF MARYLAND. 

It gives me peculiar pleasure to present to the view of my 
readers, a sketch of the achievements of a Revolutionary offi- 
cer, whose ardent zeal, unremitted exertions, and exemplary 
intrepidity, during our struggle for freedom, were rarely 
equalled, and certainly never surpassed. Examples of heroic 
valour are more efficacious in promoting the desire to emulate 
them, than the most animaring and encouraging precepts, and 
there is little doubt in my mind,- but that the cheering influ- 
ences of magnanimous daring, displayed by several young and 
inexperienced otBcers, in our first contest with Britain, had 
their full eftect in exalting, to the sublimity which it attained, 
the reputation of our Naval Heroes in the last. For undaunt- 
ed spirit — patience under the pressure of adverse fortune — 
active enterprize in the pursuit of honour, and a happy talent 
to profit by favourable occurrences to attain it, I never knew 
a man, wiio had superior claim to Captain Barney. A brief 
sketch (;ind 1 can oaly make it a brief one, from the quantity 
and variety of matter relative to our Revolution, in possession) 
will atibrd amuia proof, of the correctness of my assertion. 
Shewing an ardeat desire to engage in a seafaring hfe, his 
father, (thoutili reluctantly) indulged his wishes, and in 1771, 
being at Alicant, and having the cummand of a ship, though 
but seventeen years of age, he engaged in the Transport ser- 



93 REVOLUTIOxNARY ANECDOTES. 

vice, and witnessed the disastrous defeat of the Spanish forces 
under Count O'Reilly, before Algiers. Returning to America 
in October, he first heard of the battles of Lexington and 
Bunker's Hill, and of the general excitement against Great 
Britain. Zealous for the honour of his country, and ambi- 
tious for fame, our young sailor immediately attached himself 
to a fleet fitting out at Philadelphia, under the command of 
Commodore Hopkins, and was received as Master's Mate, on 
board the Hornet, sloop of ten guns. The American flag 
having been sent to Baltimore for this vessel, was first dis- 
played to the admiring citizens by Barney, who attaching it 
to a staff, and beating up for recruits, in one day, engaged an 
entire crew. In. November, the Hornet joined the fleet, con- 
sistinjj of eiofht vessels, carrvins: one hundred and eisjhteen 
guns, and sailed for New- Providence. The town, fort and 
shipping, having surrendered without opposition, all articles of 
a warlike nature were seized, and being received on board, the 
fleet returned to the Delaware. On the voyage, the Hornet 
fell in with the Tender of the Roebuck, which vessel beinjr 
ignorant of her character, immediately ran alongside. — " I was 
in the act of running out one of our guns," says Barney, "and 
held a match in my hand ready to fire, when our Captain, 
who was of a religious turn, and opposed to the shedding of 
blood, commanded me to desist, and the Tender escaped. — 
This hypocritical fellow, however, as if ashamed of his con- 
duct, kept below, and taking command, I carried the vessel 
safely to Philadelphia." Changing to the Wasp, he next 
convoyed the vessel, carrying Dr. Franklin to France; off the 
coast, and, on returning, being closely pressed by the British 
cruisers Roebuck and Liverpool, gladly united his force to 
that of the Lexington and Saratoga, brigs, laying in the Cape 
May channel, under the command of Captains Barry and 
Weeks. A vessel appearing ofl', the enemy chased and drove 
her on shore. The American boats were immediately sent to 
assist her in landing her cargo, consisting of arms and powder; 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 93 

but, it a))pearing impossible, from the near approach of the 
British, to etfect their purpose ; loose powder was, by Barney's 
order, scattered in the vessel's hold, and a brand of tire, judi- 
ciously placed in a sail contiguous to it, she was saarcely 
boarded before she blew up, and every man was destroyed. 
Barney, in the Wasp, now took the Tender, that had escaped 
the Hornet, and arrived safely in Philadelphia, and received 
for iiis services, from that distinguished patrior, Robert Mor- 
ris, President of the Marine Committee, a commission, as 
Lieutenant in the Navy of the United States. Being appoint- 
ed to the Sachem sloop, commanded by Captain Joshua Ro- 
binson, he sailed on a cruise, and falling in with a Letter-of- 
IMarque Brig, after a smart action of two hours, succeeded in 
capturing her. Her cargo was rum, and she had on board a 
fine turtle, intended for Lord North, which the captors, with 
peculiar pleasure, presented to Mr. Morris. In this action, 
every officer in the Sachem was either killed or wounded, 
except Barney and the Captain. Captain Robinson, was now 
removed to the x4.ndrew Doria, of fourteen gims, and Barney 
appointed his Lieutenant. Cruising OiT .St. Eustatia, in com- 
pany with the Lexington, they saluted ihe Fort, but had the 
mortification to learn, that the Commandant, for returning the 
compliment, was suspended and recalled to Holland, at the 
request of the British Government. Returning homewards 
with a cargo of powder and arms, they fell in with, and cap- 
tured a sloop called the Race-Horse, attached to Admiral 
Parker's fleet, which, under the command of a Lieutenant in 
the Navy, had been fitted out with a picked crew, expressly 
for the purpose of taking the Doria, A Snow was the next 
capture, and Barney put on board as Prize-master ; but, ad- 
verse fortune speedily overtook him, and he was compelled to 
surrender to the Perseus, of twenty guns, commanded by 
Captain G. K. Elphiston. Two seamen on board the Snow, 
who had agreed to do dutv on condition of being allowed a 
share of prize-money, refusing, on being chased by the Per- 



94 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

seus, to fulfil their en^rawement, Barney shot the instigator for 
mutiny, through the shoulder, who calling loudly for revenge, 
was cruelly mortified to find Captain Elphiston, not only justi- 
fying, but applauding the act. It is a pleasure to speak of 
this excellent officer, and generous enemy, whose humanity 
towards his prisoners v/as conspicuous throughout the war, 
and who, on this occasion, gave so decidid a proof of his jus- 
tice and regard for discipline. Nor was this the only instance 
of his strictly correct coiiduct, for the Furser of the ship, 
having, without provocation, struck Barney, the blow was 
returned, and the aggressor knocked over a quarter-deck gun, 
and precipitated down the hatchway ; nor was this the extent 
of his punishment, for, refusing, when ordered by Captain E. 
to ask pardon for so unjustifiable an outrage, he was immedi- 
ately put under an arrest, and left in that condition when 
Barney quitted the ship. Being, after some time, exchanged, 
he assisted with a Flotilla, under Com. Hazlewood, in defence 
of Mud Fort, in the Delaware, till every gun but one being 
dismounted, it was judged expedient, to burn the larger vessels, 
and in boats and galhes to retire m the night up the Delaware ; 
which, was happily effected, having previously witnessed the 
destruction of the Augusta 64, and Merlin, Sloop of War, 
belonging to the British squadron. Barney was now ordered 
to join the Virginia Frigate, Captain James Nicholson, laying 
in the Chesapeake, but was speedily put in command of a 
Tender, to watch the enemy, and report any favourvabie oppor- 
tunity that might occur for the Frigate getting to sea. On one 
of his cruises, being chased by a vessel often guns, he saw a 
sloop from Baltimore, with which he had been in company 
the day before, and made towards her to give intelligence of 
the approach of an enemy, but on nearing her, was saluted 
with a fire of musquetry and ordered to strike ; recovered from 
his first surprise, he tacked and stood for them, speedily over- 
powered her crew, retook the sloop, captured the barge which 
had taken her, and returned triumphant to Baltimore. The 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. d5 

kindness with which he treated his prisoners, produced on this 
occaMOn a com pii in ejttajj letter from Cajst. Squires, who com- 
maaded in the B>iy, wiih a suitable presesil. It was an act of 
justice very frequ'-ntly merited by the American officers, but 
rarely paid by their opponents. 1 \vould, if possible, pass over 
the disj^racelul business of ihe loss of the Virginia Fri2:ate, 
whk'.li BHruey now joined. Had his advice btt- n followed, 
she had been ruji on shore, wheti overpowered, and her crew 
saved from captivity ; but her Captain quitting her, subordi- 
nation ceased, her crew got drunk, plundeied the store and 
slop rooms, and then surrendered. Captain Caldwell, of the 
Emerald, taking possession of her, with exemplary politeness, 
invited Barney to share his cabin, and to all the other pri- 
soners, behaved with such pointed attention, that the British 
seamen nick-named him " ihe Rebel Captain.'^'' This gene- 
roiiS) conduct v>'as so much ap})reciated by Barney, who was 
frequently permitted to go on sliore, that having given it pub- 
licity, Patrick Ht-nry, the Governor of Virginia, sent a press- 
ing invitation to Captain C. to join a hunting-party, which, 
circnm^'^tances compelling him to refuse, supplies of every 
kind, wer.3 abundantly sent from the shore, as a tribute due 
to his huu.\<i nay. Barney, is now to appear in a new light. 
Removed on board of the St. Albans, of sixty-four guns, with 
other prisoners, amounting to upwards of five hundred, this 
vessil, and the remainder of the squadron, sailed for New- 
York. Barney, perceiving that she was feebly manned, con- 
ceived a project, which, had it not been communicaced to a 
traitor, would plobably have resulted in one of the most bril- 
liant achievements recorded in Naval History. His aim wa» 
to capture the ship. Tiie inducements to attempt it, were 
strong and flattering. The American officers occupied the 
gun-room, where nearly all the small arms were deposited. 
The plan was well digested ; every man had his station 
allotted to him, and his peculiar duty clearly pointed out. 
Barney and two others, were to seize the Captain in his cabin, 



96 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

and secure the private signals, by means of wlsich lie would 
have the power, without difficuhy, to capture the whole fleet. 
Every thing was prepared — the hour fixed on, and each man 
impatiently waiting the signal to b<|i,nn — when, half an hour 
before the time, a guard came and removed the small arms, 
and double sentinels placed in every direction, though not a 
word was spoken. Bnnuy dined the next day with Captfua 
Oiislow, but no symptom of suspicion was betrayed, nor a 
word uttered to give an idea of alarm. During the whole 
passage, the same caution was observed. Arriving at length 
withiii Saudy Hook, Barney was again invited to dine in 
tlic cabin, when the Captain, with a significant smile, ob- 
served, *' and so Barney, you were delegated to seize on me. 
I hope, hov/iiver, you did not meditate any personal violence ; 
yonr scheme was certainly ];]aasible, and might have suc- 
ceeded, had your secret not been betrayed to me in time by 
one of your we?^ friends — a Frenchman.'''' For this act of vil- 
lainy, the rascal obtained his liberty, and Barney was trans- 
ferred to a prison-ship. Avimiral (ramhier, arriving shortly 
after, and finding Barney the only Continental officer in con- 
finement, not only had him removed to his own ship, (the 
Ardent, of sixty-four gims,) but with distinguished humanity, 
did every thing v/ithiu die reach of h'<s ability, to ameliorate 
the sufferi'igs of the unfortunates left behind him. He even 
indulged Bariiey to go on sl.ore at pleasure, a favour, which, 
on one occasion, had nearly cost him his life : for, passing a 
street where a fire raged, the surrounding mob thought fit to 
regard him as an incendiary, and were abotit throwing him in 
the flames, wh n the name of the Admiral being mentioned, 
as his friend and protector, re-ison overpowered prejudice, 
and he was dismissed. Exchanged for a Lieutenant of the 
Mermaid Frigate, which had been driven on shore by the 
French fleet, B-.rney returned to Baltimore, and finding no 
public vessel there, joined his old commander. Captain Ro- 
binson, and sailed in a private ship for Bordeaux. Being but 



!l 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 97 

badly maimed, ill-armed, and almost destitute of ammunition, 
the wish was to avoid an action ; but, speedily a British ship 
run alons^-side, and though beaten off with loss, renewed her 
attacks, hanging on her quarters, and giving infinite annoyance, 
until Barney, hoisting a long three-pounder on her quarter- 
deck, and cutting a stern port, by a fortunate discharge of 
grape and landgrage, to which a crow-bar was added, so com- 
pletely carried away her foretack and all her weather-shrouds, 
that her commander was obliged to wear ship to save his 
foremast. In this condition they left her, and proceeded on 
their voyage, having but two men wounded, while their adver- 
sary, which proved to be the Rose Bud, of eighteen guns, 
lost, in killed and wounded, forty-seven men. Arrived at 
Bordeaux, they shipped a crew of seventy men, and mounted 
eighteen six-pounders, sailed for Philadelphia, and captured 
on the passage a Letter-of-Marque, of equal force, killing 
seventeen men, and wounding others, brought her safely into 
port. Having now a considerable share of prize-money, he 
thought that an excellent opportunity offered of making his 
fortune by speculation, and set out for Baltimore with that 
intention, but found to his mortification, on reaching that city, 
that his trunk had been opened and stripped of its contents, 
and that he was left without a single dollar. Barney's, was 
not a heart to give way to despondency, or unnecessarily to 
lament an incurable evil ; he, therefore, immediately joined 
the Saratoga, Captain Young, of fifteen nine-pounders, and 
sailing on a cruize, made prize of a ship, shewing twenty, but 
carrying only twelve guns. 1 have now to mention an action, 
in which Barney bore a distinguished part. Falling in with a 
ship, carrying thirty-two guns and seventy men, a brig of 
fourteen guns, and a «inaller one of four guns, from Jamaica, 
bound to New- York, the Saratoga laid the ship along-side, 
and Barney, at the head of fifty men, boarding her, drove her 
erew below, and struck her colours, and then, with his prize, 
pursuing the brig with four guns, captured her also ; the larger 

9 



98 REVOLUTIOx\ARY ANECDOTES* 

one of fourteen, in the interim, surrendering to the Saratoga. 
These vessels contairted a cargo of nineteen hundred hogs- 
heads of rum, then selhng at Philadelphia, at three dollars per 
gallon, and every man considered his fortune as made ; but, 
falling in with a BrUich squailron at the mouth of the Dela- 
ware, all the prizes were retaken ; the Saratoga herself, with 
great difficulty getting off. Barney was taken on board the 
Intrepid, and in her Commander, Anthony James Malloy, 
met with a tyrant, who, by his barbarity, disgraced both his 
country and his profession, keeping his prisoner for several 
days on the poop, in a severe snow-storm, without permitting 
him to enjoy the comforts of clothes or bedding. Arrived at 
New- York, he was put on board the Yarmouth, of seventy- 
four guns, and sent to England. On this voyage, the situation 
of the prisoners was truly deplorable, confined in a miserable 
dungeon for fifty-three days, without light, aiKl breathing only 
noxious air; the ravages of disease carried op^'elevesi of their 
number, who all died raving mad. On his arrival at Ply- 
mouth, Barney could scarcely stand, but being removed to a 
prison-ship, and from thence to the mill-prison, i;e speedily 
recovered both his strength and activity. Detected in an 
attempt to escape from the last, he was ironed, and confined 
for thirty days to a dungeon. This did not, however, deter 
him from making a new effort to regain his liberty, and in the 
undress of a British officer, being favoured by a friendly centi- 
nel, who had served in America, and been well-treated there ; 
he did so effectually. Repairing to the house of a friend, he 
was kindly received and secreted. Throughout the whole of 
Britain, at that time, there were many of the inhabitants, who 
not only applauded the resistance of America, but sincerely 
wished success to her arms. Their sentiments were delivered 
without fear, and their purses opened with liberality, and who 
never, though the peiisilty of high treason was attached to the 
oftence, failed to n;d the prisoners wlio had escaped iVoni their 
dungeons, and to facilitate by their utmost efforts, their return 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 99 

to their friends and country. DiS2:uised as a fisherman, and 
accompanied by Colonel Wm. Richardson and Dr. Hender- 
son, of Maryland, who were prisoners at Plymouth, Barney 
now attempted to cross the channel, and gain the French 
coast, but on the passage was captured and brought back to 
port. Escaping from his captors, he again sought the dwel- 
ling of his friend, and having provided himself with a fashion- 
able suit of clothes, set out in a post-chaise and four, for 
Exeter; at the gate the chaise was stopped by a centinel, 
who said, that he was ordered to keep a sharp look-out for 
sailors and deserters, but awed by the genteel appearance of 
Barney, he speedily closed the door and retired. Passing 
from Exeter to Bristol, and from thence to London, he speedi- 
ly proceeded on to Margate, and embarked for Ostend. The 
weather on the voyage was bad, and Barney, discovering 
among the passengers a lady, who suffered exceedingly from 
sea-sickness, bestowed on her his entire attention. To him 
it was a fortunate meeting. Arrived in port, she invited him 
to her hotel, and finding that he was travelling the same 
route with herself, insisted on his taking a seat in her carriage 
to Brussels. The Emperor Joseph was on a visit incog, to 
this part of his dominions, and being introduced to him by his 
female friend, Barney was gratified by a long and interesting 
interview. The lady, who was an Italian, now set out for 
Turin, and Barney proceeded on his course to Holland. 
Here he joined the South-Carolina, commanded by Com» 
Gillon, which he pronounced the finest Frigate in the world, 
and sailirg North-about, after t' e capture of a Privateer, put 
into Corunna, when, finding that Gillon had no intention of 
returniiig immediately to America, he sailed in a privateer 
bound for Beverly, and arrived in safety. The command of 
a ship of twenty guns was now offered him, but fortunately 
refused; since, arriving at Philadelphia, through the influence 
of his steady friend, Robert Morris, he was appointed to the 
command of the Hyder Alb, of sixteen guns and one hundred 



100 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

and ten men, and speedily achieved a victory that crowned 
him with imperishable honour and renown. His particular 
duty was to convoy vessels going to sea, and to protect them 
from refugee boats, that swarmed in the river Delavrare. 
Lying on one occasion at Cape May, waiting for a wind, that 
his convoy might put to sea, he saw two ships and a brig 
making towards him, the Convoy was ordered up the Bay, 
Barney keeping constantly in their rear. One ship and 
the brig came into the same channel in which he was, the 
other ship took another course, with a view to head him. 
The brig first came up, delivered her broad-side and passed 
on ; the ship next approached within pistol-shot, when a well- 
directed broad-side was poured into her from the Hyder-Alli ; 
the enemy closed, and came near on board ; Barney, crossing 
her hawser, got entangled in her fore-rigging, and keeping her 
in a raking position, by an irresistible fire of great guns and 
small arms, in twenty-six minutes brought down her colours. 
The brig, perceiving the ship's misfortune, run on shore, to 
avoid a similar fate. Barney and his prize proceeded up the 
Bay. The captured vessel, proved to be the General Monk, 
mounting twenty-nine pounders and one hundred and thirty- 
six men, commanded by Captain Rogers. She lost twenty 
men killed and thirty-three wounded ; among the first, the First 
Lieutenant, Purser, Doctor, Boatswain and Gunner: among 
the last, the Captain, and every other officer, one Midshipman 
alone, excepted. The Hyder-AJli, had four men killed and 
eleven wounded. The Legislature of Pennsylvania, on this 
occasion, voted to Captain Barney, a gold-headed sword, 
which was presented to him by the Governor of the State. 
The General Monk was sold, and being bought in by Govern- 
ment, Barney had the honour of being appointed to com- 
mand her. Ordered with despatches to the French and Spa- 
nish Admirals in the West Indies, he performed the duty with 
uncommon expedition — captured one prize, and took on board 
sixty thousand dollars, in specie, belonging to private indivi- 



REV0LUTIOi\ARY ANECDOTES. 101 

duals, and arrived safely in Philadelphia, being absent only 
thirty-five days on his voyage. Returning up the Bay, he had 
the good fortune to fall in with a fleet of refugee boats, sunk ■ 
one, having sixty men on board, and retook their prizes, five 
in number, without loss. He was now ordered to France, 
having on board the Secretary of the French Ambassador, 
carrying despatches to his Government. His fair fame and 
high reputation for chivalric valour, had preceded him, and on 
his being presented at Court, the most gracious reception 
was given by the Monarch, and grateful compliments bestow- 
ed by the surrounding Courtiers. In January, 1783, being 
entrusted with a large sum in specie, and despatches for Con- 
gress, by Dr. Franklin, he sailed in the ship General Wash- 
ington, under a passport from the King of England, but did 
not arrive in America until March. Preliminary Articles of 
Teace, had been signed before his departure from France, 
which he exultingly declared, but it was not till he had deliver- 
ed the money which he had in charge, and produced his pass- 
port, and shewed a letter from Dr. Franklin, communicating 
the happy event, that belief was given to his assertions. The 
joy was universal. The Liberty of America appeared esta- 
blished upon the firmest basis, and peace was regarded as the 
certain harbinger of prosperity and happiness. The activity 
of Barney remained undiminished ; he made several voyages 
in the service of the United States, but there was no longer a 
call for the display of that enterprize and valour, that so par- 
ticularly ch.araeterizcd the man. From 1775 to 1783, his 
may be considered a life of incessant service, peculiarly 
honourablc'to himself, and useful to his country. I have con- 
fined myself to facts, well authenticated, and yet, I have 
little doubt, but that my narrative will be considered by many 
more a romance than a real story. He was the first of the 
Naval officers of our country, who engaged in the service — he 
was the last to quit it. He was the favourite of the nation — the 
terror of its enemies — the friend of his professional associates, 

9* 



102 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

and of every virtuous citizen. I could not say more in hi» 
praise, though I were to write volumes. 

Documents have been furnished me, to show, that during the 
late war with Great Britain, age had not damped the ardour 
of his youthful fire, and that the patriotic virtue, which had 
first induced him to draw his sword, to obtain his country's 
freedom, was as prompt to wield it, in defence of her establish- 
ed rights. But, to enter into details, would be foreign to my 
purpose, as T wish to confine myself to Anecdotes, connected, 
with our Revolutionary war. I, nevertheless, flatter myself, 
that it will be clearly understood, that Com. Barney was, ever, 
in my eyes, a Hero, unbounded in his affection to his country, 
and ready at her call, to risk his fortune and his life, to prove 
his perfect devotion to her interests. I cannot, however, 
avoid stating, and on the very best authority, that had but a 
few ardent spirits like his own been present when the British 
appeared before Washington, America had never suffered the 
disgrace of having the Seat of Government captured and de- 
stroyed, with scarcely an effort made for its defence. 

Sometime after the commencement of the French Revolu- 
tion, Barney served with distinguished credit under the Tri- 
coloured Flag. Being taken by the British, and carried 
into Jamaica, indefatigable pains were taken to fix on him 
the crime of piracy, and to condemn him as a lawless bandit. 
The attempt, however, fiiilcd, and ample was the retril)ution 
which followed the result, for he confidently assured a friend, 
on whose statement I ca)i depend, that subsequently cruising 
in the British channel, he had captured property to the amount 
of one hundred and fifty thousand dollars. I 



EEVOLUTIOiNARV ANECDOTES. 103 



LIEUT. JOHN MAYRA^NT. 

I have in my first series, recorded the services of more 
than one Naval hero, but in my notice of the unparalleled 
conflict which occurred between the Bon Homme Richard 
and the Serapis, have neglected to mention the distin- 
guished intrepidity of a highly meritorious officer, Lieut. 
John Mayrant. 1 had the happiness of being in habits of 
strict intimacy with this gentleman in the days of our 
youth. I prized his friendship too highly to have neglect- 
ed him through design, and flatter myself, that by intro- 
ducing him on the present occasion, to the public, some 
reparation will be made, and my inadvertency excused. 



Mr. John Mayrant, while yet a mere boy, serving under 
Paul Jones, as a MidshipmaFi, obtained distinguished 
honour. His conduct during the battle had evinced extra- 
ordinary coolness and resolution, and when, as it drew 
near to a conclusion, an order was given to board, he was 
the first to leap into the enemy's vessel, and while ani- 
mating his followers by his example to that display of 
heroism, that speedily secured the palm of victory, was 
severely v/ounded. His exertions, however, though check- 
ed, were not altogether paralyzed, and till the colours of 
the Serapis, were struck, refusing to quit the deck, he 
displayed a calm intrepidity, which, even to a veteran, 
accustomed to such scenes, would have given an additional 
laurel. Shortly after this action, Mr. Mayrant changed 
his ship, being appointed a Lieutenant on board the South- 
Carolina frigate, commanded by Commodore Gillon. 
His services in this situation, gave great increase to hiii 



104 K INVOLUTION ARY ANECDOTES. 

reputation, not his bravery only, but his humanity also, 
beiiii^ exercised with peculiar ocl;«t. J will i»ivt-, in the 
words in which it caine into my hands, a coniinunication, 
which 1 have every reason to believe perfectly correct: — 

** As the frigate South-Carolina, com'nanded by Cora. 
Gillon, was cruisiui^ between tl>e D.ihama Islands an<l the 
Florida Keys, it ha})pened one niiiht, Lieut. John May- 
rant beinif officer of the deck,) that he was ordered to keep 
a good look-out and the lead a-goinjy ; and a Midshipman 
with a iiioht-g'lass was placed at each quarter. About two 
hours before day, the one stationed on the starboard annf)UT»c- 
ed, that he perceived a rock : upon a nearer inspection, it 
proved to be a fleet, and on drawinji^ still Jiearer, a Jamaica 
fleet. About 4, a. m. the fri<^ate was close aboard four of 
them and another ship was to be seen at about tive miles 
to windward; to secure the whole prize was now the ob- 
ject of the Commodore, but one, which there was no possi-t 
bility of attaining without having recourseto artifice ; and, 
after a hasty consultation willi his officers, the following 
line of conduct was determined on: — In the Arst place, 
the Frigate having British colours flying, hailed the four 
ships nearest to her, ordering them to heave to, and pro- 
mising to send a boat aboard of them. Lieutenant May- 
rant, was then ordered to take a bargt;, and with twenty- 
four choice men and about four or five maiinos, (himself, 
as well as the marines) being all in British uniform, to 
make for the furthest vessel, he did so, and when arrived 
under her stern, and rounding upon her quarter, in answer 
to the Captain's inquiry, as to what boat that was, repjied 
that it was the barge of the D'Artois, commanded by Cap- 
tain M'Bride ; the Captain ordered him to keep ofl^, threat- 
ening to fire into him. Lieutenant Mayrant, in rf-turn, 
commanded him to heave a rone immediaulv, and asltinir 
if he would dare to fire into His Majesty's boat, ordered 



REVOLUTIO.NARV ANECDOTES. 105 

his men to pull alonir aide: on hearing this, the British 
ship, without further di.^pute hove a rf»pe, and manned 
her sides ; such heing ihc ceremony usually observed in 
receiving an officer. Lieutenant May rant irrrraediately 
stept on board, having previously ordered his men not to 
follow, but on receiving a concerted sirrnal ; the Captain 
received him witii great politeness, and the usual inquiries 
liaving been made and answered, Lieutenant Mayrant de- 
sired to see his papers, in order to examine them: No 
sooner had the Captain gone below, in the search of them, 
than Lieutenant Mayrant's men, receiving tfie expected 
signal, stept on board to the nutnber of twenty, all armed 
with cutlasses, and having pistols concealed under their 
jackets. The Captain having returned, Lieut. Mayrant, 
after examining tlie papers, inquired how many men he 
had on board, and on his replying that there were forty, 
ordered him to take his papers and twenty men, and to go 
with them on board of the Frigate ; he replied ' why, surely 
Sir, you do not mean to impress my men at sea.' Lieut. 
M. replied, ' certainly not, but Captain M'Bride, being a 
very particular man, wishes to examine the men and papere 
himself.' The Captain still hesitated, upon which Lieut. 
Mayrant reiterating his order, made a sign to his men to 
draw their sabres, on (ierceiviiig which, the Captain, not 
choosing to risk a contest, obeyed Lieut. AL ; ordered hirn 
to row off, while he would undertake to carry the ship 
down to the Frigate. As soon as the Captain was fairly 
off', Lieut. M. ordering the remainder of the crew below, 
reversed the Bfitish colours. At which sight, the conster- 
nation of the Captain, who, from the barge, was a spectator 
of what passed, may be better conceived than expressed ; 
he declared it to be a damned Yankee trick ; but, the de- 
ception was discovered too late, and he found himself 
obliged to go on board of the Frigate: by this means, 
Commodore Gilloa was enabled to capture the whole fleets 



106 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

consisting of five Jamaica men, heavily laden with sugar 
and rum. 

Lieutenant Mayrant, remained in possession of the ship, 
which he had been instrumental in taking, and which 
proved to be the Nelly, Captain Noble, with fourteen eigh- 
teen pound carronades, compliment of forty men, .bound 
from Jamaica to Glasgow, laden with four hundred hhds. 
of sugar, and one hundred of rum. After having been in 
command of her two or three days, and sailing in the Gulf 
Stream, it happened that a man, whom he had ordered to 
heave the lead, was, by a pitch of the ship, thrown from 
the main chains, overboard : the ship was immediately 
hove to, and several coops and chests thrown overboard to 
him ; it was then attempted to lower the boats to his relief, 
but on trial, they were found to have remained dry so long, 
as to be unlit for the purpose. Lieut. M. was then obliged 
to make sail on the ship, as she had drifted considerably 
from having her sails aback ; he then, by making a stretch 
and a tack, succeeded in coming up with the man, and 
brought him to about twenty feet on his weather-bow. 
Lieut. M. then called to some of his men to jump over- 
board and carry him a rope: but, though none refused, 
they hesitated so long, that Lieut. Mayrant, perceiving 
that there was no time to be lost, as the ship was drifting 
fast, took hold of the end of a rope himself, jumped over- 
board, and swimming up to the man, put it in his hands. 
The ship being at this time in the Gulf Stream, with all 
her sails aback, drifted so rapidly, that Lieut. M. and the 
sailor were drawn, at the end of the rope, considerably 
under water ; the sailor now letting go the rope, clung 
round Lieut. M's. neck, who found himself obliged also to 
let go his hold, in order to extricate himself, which he 
succeeded in doing ; as soon as they rose to the surface, 
they both then swam to a hen-coop, of which they took 
hold, one at each end ; on this coop they remained three 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 107 

hours and a half. Meanwhile, the Frigate South-Carolina, 
perceivinj^ the Nelly, (which was about ten miles distant 
from her,) wearing and stearing, and putting out signals of 
di-itress, concluded that the prisoners on board had risen 
and retaken the ship, but on making up to her, was in- 
formed that lAexit. M. and one of the men were overboard ; 
the direction being pointed out, in which they were last 
seen, they were soon after perceived by a man at the mast- 
head of the Frigate, who pointed them out ; the Frigate, as 
soon as she came near them, lowered live boats, which 
spread themselves, and about half an hour before dark, 
Lieut. M. and the sailor were taken up by one of them ; the 
sea was, at this time, running so high, that the boats could 
not disceru them, and the sun was down." 

Lieutenant Mayrant, at a subsequent period, opened a 
House of Rendezvous at Philadelphia, for the enlistment 
of Sailors, which was kept by the mother of the sailor, 
whose life he had preserved. On this occasion, his 
humanity met with an ample reward, for the ijratified 
parent, feeling influenced by the recollection of the service 
rendered her, plead the cause of her benefactor with su(ih 
persuasive eloquence, portraying 'his character in such 
terms, as the sailors' friend — the brave supporter of liis 
country's rights, and above all, his readiness to risk his 
life to save that of a fellow tar, that he had only to select 
the followers he wished for, every man who had listened 
to her, being anxious to enlist under his banners. 



108 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



BRITISH OFFICERS. 

In my first series of Anecdotes, I have spoken freely of 
the characters and conduct of the British Officers, who served 
in Carohna, endeavouring, without prejudice or partiahty, 
to 

"Give the palm, or shake the rod as justice turned the scale." 

I certainly omitted to speak well of an officer, entitled to 
high commendation, and consider it a duty, as far as in my 
power, to repair my error. 

LIEUT. COLONEL MAITLAND, OF THE SEVEN- 
TY-? IRST REGIMENT. 

I cannot imagine how the merits of so distinguished an 
officer escaped my notice in my first publication, since it has 
been my invariable aim to give to every individual, who was 
entitled to it, a just meed of praise, and no one more richly 
deserved it than Colonel Maitland. To consummate intrepi- 
dity, he united a humanity towards the unfortunate., that gave 
additional grace to every laurel that he won. His valour at 
Stono, was highly conspicuous, and caused the ultimate dis- 
comfiture of General Lincoln's army, which, in the early part 
of the engagement had been triumphantly successful. But, 
in no instance was greater benefit rendered to the government 
which he served, than in his indefatigable effi^rtc to relieve, 
his associates in arms shut up in Savannah, and closely 
invested by the combined forces of France and America. 
Deep and universal despondency, prevailed within the Garri- 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOT^Ts. 109 

son, and the only deliberation was, how to render submission 
as little disgraceful as possible. Every avenue by which the 
approach of Colonel Maithmd and his Highlanders could be 
looked for, was closed ; yet, by unconquerable industry, he 
discovered an obscure creek, but little navigated, and by dint 
of persevering exertion, dragging his boats through it, reached 
the Garrison before the time allowed for deliberation had 
expired. Entering the Council Chamber, where discussions 
were carrying on, he is said to have approached with hurried 
step, the table, and striking the hilt of his claymore against it, 
to have exclaimed, " the man who utters a syllable recom- 
mendmg surrender, makes me his decided enemy ; it is ne- 
cessary that either he or /, should fall." So resolute a speech, 
at a moment so critical, produced the happiest effect on the 
minds of all. Hope and courage regained their influence in 
every mind — eacii individual repaired to his post, with alacrity 
and confidence ; the terms offered by the besiegers were re- 
jected, and the town was saved. 



DAVID CAMPBELL, OF THE SIXTY-FOURTH 

REGIMENT. 

Of inferior grade, but of the most pure and honourable 
principles, this excellent officer and benevolent man, settled 
in Carolina after the war, and lived for many years, beloved 
and admired by the entire community. At the period of his 
death, the following obituary notice of him, appeared in our 
public prints: — 

" Died, recently, after a lingering and severe illness, 
David Campbell, Esq. of St. Bartholomew's Parish, in 
the sixty-second year of his age. He served with distin- 
guished reputation during the war of our Revolution, as a 

10 



110 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

Captain in the British 63d Reg^iment. He landed on our 
shores as an enemy, but to his honour, it must forever redound, 
that as far as it was in his power to prevent it, misfortune 
was never aggravated by insult. An advantage gained by the 
army in which he served, was but a prelude to the exercise of 
every liberal attention towards his opponents, that could miti- 
gate the severity of the reverses they had experienced. His 
purse was as open as his heart, and although as a Subaltern, 
his means could not have been great, yet, proportioned to his 
ability, its contents were never withheld from the unfortunate, 
but bestowed with such unaiFected tenderness, as to render 
every benevolence doubly valuable. In battle brave — in vic- 
tory generous and humane. A higher character need not be 
given of him, to render Carolinians, who admired his virtues 
while living, feehngly to join in sympathy, with his surviving 
family, and to lament the stroke of fate, which deprives them 
of a member, so worthy, of their most exalted love, and admi- 
ration. At the conclusion of the war, Captain Campbell left 
the British service, married and settled in Carolina, and by 
uniformly supporting the character of an amiable man, aiid 
useful citizen, commanded the esteem of all who knew 
him." 

I cannot here but repeat, with grateful respect, the names 
of Brigadier General Clarke, Colonels Webster, Campbell of 
the 71st, Small, and M'Arthur, the Majors Majoribanks, 
Money, and M'Elroth, and the officers of the Staff, M'Mahon 
and Bluck. In Carolina, the names of Roberts and Lloyd, 
D. Campbell, Graham, and Tomaniio, of the 63d and 64th 
Regiments. Of the Lieut. Colonels, St. George and Fox ; 
Captains, Steward of the Guards, Wynyard, of the 33d, 
M'Kenzie, and Charles Morris, whose attention to their suf- 
fering school-fellows and early friends, never knew abatement, 
are always held in the highest veneration. While eternal 
ignominy rests on the names of Rawdon, VVeymess, Cochran. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. Ill 

Provost, and Baird, with a multitude of others, who, with less 
power, had equally strong inclinations to oppress and to 
destroy. 



THE M'KENZIES. 

I have mentioned in my First Series of Anecdotes, that 
when our gallant countryman Major Pinckney, received a 
w ourid at Gates' defeat, which placed him in the hands of the 
enemy, the generous feelings of an old school-fellow, Captain 
Charles Barrington M'Kenzie, of the 71st British Regiment, 
under the blessing of Heaven, saved his valuable life.* This 
brave soldier had a brother in the Naval service, whose misfor- 
tune it was to be taken, in a small Sloop of War which he 
commanded, by the Amazon, of thirty-six guns, Qapt. La Pey- 
rouse. The Frenchman had, immediately before the action, 
conveyed Major Pinckney, on board the Languedoc, Count 
D'Estaing, wishing to have an officer of intelligence and con- 
versant in the French language, near his person. This cir- 
cumstance being incidentally mentioned, and the fact esta- 
blished, that Major P. was present, with the combined forces, 
before Savannah. Captain M'Kenzie, confident that war 
had not weakened the force of early friendship, said to the 
gallant Frenchman, tendering his services, "let me have the 
pleasure of receiving the comforts I stand in need of from 
Tom Pinckney ; let him but know what my wishes are, and 
he will not fail to have them fully gratified." How cruel the 
recollection, that the wild ambition of a corrupt and arrogant 
administration, should have attempted, to estrange hearts 
luiited by such congeniality of sentiments, from each other. 



Vide First Series, page 287, 



.112 llEVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



MR. JAMES SIMPSON. 

It should forever redound to the honour of Mr. Simpson, 
the first President of the Board of PoUce, that the only use 
wiiich he ever made of his power and influence, was to miti- 
gate the sufferings of the unfortunate, and hv generous atten- 
tion, to free them from every taint oi" pohucal animosity, and 
to reconcile them to a government which they appeared unahle 
to resist. Nor is less credit due to hirvi from his clear percep- 
tion of the pohcy wiiich should have been adopted in the hour 
of triumphant success. He constantly opposed every arbitrary 
decree that issued from the higher authorities, and warned 
them of the inevitable results that would follow the tyrannical 
measures pursued. Wearied out by his fruitless efforts to 
promote a reconciliation, and check the progress of oppression 
on the one hand, and of discontent on the other, he resigned 
the exalted station which he held, and retired to Europe ; fore- 
boding the disasters and disgrace, that were speedily to ob- 
scure the glory of Britain. To add to the misery of the 
country, Sir Egerton Leigh, was appointed to succeed him. 
What sort of man he was, may be seen by a reference to my 
First Series, page 225. 



CAPTAIN M'MAHON. 

The interesting Anecdote which follows, relative to the 
ardent and fu'm attachment of General C. C. Pinckney, to the 
American cause, was communicated to me by Captain M'Ma- 
hon, an officer of distinguished meiit. His liberality towards 
the unfortunate, while Charleston was held by the British, 
proves that he was a man of pure and honourable sentiments, 



REVOLUTIONARV^ ANECDOTES. 113 

and it is to be inferred from such indications of worth, scrupu- 
lously the friend of truth. His words were to this elFect, 
*' once, by instruction, I attempted to tamper with Colonel 
Pinckney, and touched with dehcacy upon the possibility of 
a reconciliation with our government, hinting on the honours 
thdt would be his, should he openly declare his approbation of 
our measures. The result was indeed humiliating to me. I 
was instantaneously awed into silence, by the superiority of 
his patriotic virtue, and felt myself degraded by the office I 
had undertaken." Who that knew the purity of his affection 
for his country, could Jiave suspected that sordid interest, or 
the highest honours, in the gift of the British Monarch, could 
have induced him to abandon his principles, and sacrifice her 
liberties. 

" There was not a purpose, 
Which his soul e'er formed, or hand acted 
But he could have bid the world look on, 
And what he dar'd to do, have dar'd to justify." — RowE. 



GENERAL SIR WM. HOWE. 

In my sketch of the celebrated festival at Philadelphia, 
'•the itiischeanza,^^ I have attempted a delineation of the 
conduct and character of this distinguished officer. The 
portrait which follows, I am inclined to believe, far more accu- 
rate, being drawn by one, who was a witness to all his actions, 
and who knew the bent of his disposition thoroughly. " Be- 
fore he obtained the command of the Army, General Howe 
was regarded as an officer of high promise. Ambitious of 
military fame, he spared no pains to gain information, and to 
profit by their experience and improved talents, sought the 
societv, and conversed only, with men of superior ability, and 
distinguished reputation. But, gratified ambition, soon altered 

10* 



114 REVOLUTIONARV ANECDOTK.S. 

his views, aiul iiidiicrd liiiii to imrsuc a course Tmi- less cretli- 
tuble, and even to liavc clijinu;(!(l liis imlwrc. 'VUc sober, 
Bcilale Holdier, dej^eiiemted into a licentioiis deljauchce, uad 
tlic society of the wise; and virtuous alKuidoiu>d for that olllio 
nu»sl depraved an<i vi<'.ious youths, lliat <u)uld Ix; eollreted, 
whoHe hi<^hest reeoiiuiu^iidatious to favour, ccuisisuxl in hjuijjf 
able to excite a lau^rh, even by ex})osin«»' to ridicule thin<»s the 
most sacred uud worthy of admiration. " 



LORD 1? AW DON. 

In lookiiiij^ over the papers of a v<My (Hstinj^uishctd patriot, 
deceased, vvhicli had l)een |Mit into my liands witli the exj)ec- 
lation of their alVordin<^ iiu; sonu^ inlormation thai wouhl assist 
me in the completion ol* my second series of Revolutionary 
Anecdotes, 1 found it slated, that some ilioit tinu; previous to 
the attack upon the American lV)sl on Sullivan's island, ii 
gold-hxced cocked hat, had been picked up on the sea-shore, 
which had the name " Itairdun .,'''' distinctly printed within the 
crown. The writer mak<!s his obsfuviitions w.vy fully on the 
folly of induli>'in^ inordinate; ambition, and in tin; belief, that 
his Lordship had actually |)erished in a storm, that had a 
little before occasioned the loss oi' a vt^ry fine ship on the 
coast, proclaiming^ his fate as richly merited, for havin<» <piit- 
ted th(! free enjoyment of every blessin<»- that rank and fortune 
could bestow, to bear arms against a people who had m ver 
injured nor oft'ended him, and to whom it ajipears, that he 
liad previously declared himself much attached. And upon 
what principle did he do this ? Not that he believed their 
resistance criminal, or their resolution to defend their ri;;hts 
luinatural, or impolitic, but solely "to seek the bubble reputa- 
tion," and by aiming at military distinction, to ^am the smiles 
©f his king, the favour of an abandoned administration, and 



REVOLUTION A It/ ANECDOTES. 115 

ihe ag)»randizemenl of i'onurm^ and honours to hiK famiJy. 
ilippy ftiui it heen Cor Carolina, ha/1 lie f>eri«fKid \>Hi'f}rti tie 
IrofJ on our feoil, with hostile intxintion. Happy for hi« c*>un- 
try too, as it would }iave saved her reputation from much of 
that ohJoquy which has Innitt cafit upontiic liritirfj name; for, 
certainly tliere never was an officer in command, wlio appear- 
ed Ko jjttle KcrupulouK in deviating/ wantonly from every prin- 
ciple of justice, nor one who, with more ri^id s^iverity, followed 
the path of devafitation and hloodhhed. Let a r«^ference l>e 
made to the first series of Anecdot<;s of the lievolution, and 
Kulficient evulence will he fouiid, of his uniform dtthiTH to 
f)\>ltriifiii ; — his despotic rule over the inliahitants of Camden, 
and jts vicinity, while he commanded there, and the ruihlewi 
>>arharity with winch multitudes wttnt daily led to the j^allowg. 
Let the wanton executjorj of Colonel llayne, be c<ji(Sider<^ 
as the climax ui' Ins ambition, to put down resistance by 
slaughter. Yet, other charges remain against lain that can- 
not be controverted or excuftcd. On what [K>ssjble ple^i, I 
would ask, can his crafty msinuatjoni* against Colonel Jiiliour 
be justified, on whom, when he ioyind the current of pojjular 
opinion running strongly against this dec:;d of bh>*xl, he wish'-d 
to throw the turpitude of the act, insinuating in his famoug 
letter to Colonel Lee, " that contrary to his inclination, and 
unceasing op[>osilion, the nefarious deed had Ix^en insisted 
ujion, and finally per(>etrated. lialfour was actually dead, 
or, (as the letter was written at sea, on hi« Lordship's passage 
to J idia,) not in a situation to defend hims*;lf, or to rebut so 
unjUi- tillable a cahimnv, which renders the attempt to injure, 
the more bas«i and unpardonaijle. The fact is. Lord itawdou 
kii ;w full well, that he had committ^^i an act appalling to 
huiiianity, winch, at the moment, he tr>ok all possible pain» to 
Ju . fy, but, to which, when he found the opinions of society 
dec-'Jedly opposed, he would have uuUicaA men to lx;lieve, 
that he never had given a sanction. 1 will say nothing of /<t# 
maours, save only that it was an insuit to the Army, and am 



116 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

nnuistifi.ble act of treachery to his king, to quit his command 
when he knew that he was the only man in the cour.try, equal 
to the guidance of it-lured from his duty by the beauty and 
faschmtions of alovely woman, to f..Uo,v her to Europe. 

.. Whrre-were thy terrors Consoier,ce-where thy justice 1 
Tlii t ll!i« Imil .i-aii should perpetrate such cniiies, 
Insult thy sacred power, and glory in it."-Fiuscis. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 117 



PETER JOHNSTON, AND SOLDIERS OF THE 

LEGION. 

Some weeks, spent in the Summer of 1826, under the hos- 
pitable roof of" my early companion in arms, and justly valued 
friend Judge ; Peter Johnston, of Abingdon, Virginia, gave con- 
siderable iiicrease to my collection of Revolutionary Anec- 
dotes, particularly such as related to the coiiduct generally, and 
gallant achievements of the officers and soldiers of the Legion. 
I shall, without hesitation, record many of them, more espe- 
cially such as give evidence of the foresight, unruffl d temper 
in the hour of peril, and intrepid conduct in action of my friend 
the Judge ; persuaded, that they will be perused, with as much 
satisfaction, by my readers, as attended, when related, with de- 
light to mvself. I shall beffin with a narrative of the Murdf.i of 
Gillies, particularly as it happened under the eye of my friend, 
in the first rencounter which he ever had with the enemy. 

GILLIES. 

On the retreat of the army of General Greene into Virginia, 
subsequent to Morgan's victory at the Cowpens, a rencounter 
took place with the enemy, which strongly evinces the sangui- 
nary disposition of Tarlton's dragoons, and the great superiority 
both in strength and courage of the Legionary Cavalry. The 
officers of the Legion were about seating themselves at the hos- 
pitable board of a friendly farmer, when Colonel Otho Wil- 
liams, who commanded the Light Corps, rode up, attended by 
a countryman, mounted on a miserable tackey, and exclaimed, 
*' to horse, gentlemen, the enemy are at hand." This honest 
fellow, seeing them pass his field, quitted his plough, and has- 



118 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

tened to ^ive us informntion of their approach. Captain Arm- 
strong, with a small parly, were immediately ordered forwaj'd 
to reconnoitre, and the countryman dircT.ted to serve hnn as a 
g-uide, hut he decidedly refused to do so, ludess a hetter horse 
was allowed him than that which he rodt'. Lieut. Col. Lve, 
wishinii^ no delay, said to his Bugler, (iiIIh ^,m ;^allant youth, yet 
in early life, *' clr.in«j;'e horses with him, (Mllies, you, I am con- 
fident, you do not fear to trust yourself on his tackey." The ex- 
change was immediately made. Armstrong pushed forward, 
and Lee, with Lieut. Lewis, Peter Johnston, (then serving as 
a volunteer, and a candidate for a comnussion) with eighteeiir 
dragoons, with all expedition followed him. Alter ridmg a 
mile or more, Lee becanit^ impressed with tin conviction that 
the countryman was in error, and determined to return to the 
farm house where dinner had been left, untouched, on the ta- 
ble. For this purpose h(.' turned into the woods, through which 
the nearest course to the spot lay, and had gone but a short dis- 
tance, however, from the road, when a report of pistols was 
heard, discharged by Armstrong's orJers, to give notice that 
he had met the enemy. Lee immediately drew his men up in 
the wood by the road side. When Gillies was perceived, urg- 
ing his tackey to the utmost of his speed, strdiing him at every 
step with his cap, and smihng with the hope of enjoying the 
termination of the affair, not doubting but that relief was at 
hand. The moment that the British Dratjoons arrived at a 
point opposite to the Legionary Detachment, the charge was 
ordered, but too late to save poor Gillies, who fell covered with 
wounds. Exasperated, almost to madness, to see an unarmed, 
beardless boy thus butchered while offering no resistance, the 
Legionary Cavalry rushed forward, and in a few minutes four- 
teen of the British lay dead on the field. Their captain, and 
eight men, of whom several were severely wounded, made pri- 
sojiers. The remainder of the party ilcd and escaped. Great 
prowess was exliibited in this unequal conflict by individuals. 
The British had thirty-seven dragoons engaged — the Ameri*" 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 119 

tans, but eighteen. Serjf.ant Power killed two men with hif 
own hand, tli. last of whom died a marlyr to his unbendina-j 
political prejudices, for, when assured that jjood quarters would 
be granted him on the surrender of his sword, he disdainfully 
replied, " it is far more grateful to me to die than to preserve 
my life, by yielding my sword to a rebel." Peter Johnston, the 
volunteer, must have fallen in the conflict, had not Sergeant 
Broom at tfie instant that a deadly blow was aimed at his head 
by a back-han<^ied stroke of his saf»re, sliced off a considerable 
part of the skull of the British dragoon who aimed it, and caus- 
ed th«i uplifted weapon to fall withou? elfect. The cry for re- 
venge was universal, and Captain jVI-llcr, who commanded, 
would have been sacrificed, had it not been ascertained that the 
near approach of the main armv of the enemy made it neces- 
sary immediately to re'^reat. The prisoners w^re, in conse- 
quence, sen: U> Colonel Williams, who sent them ajfain forward 
to fiead-Qnartf rs. When the strong excitement of anger hav- 
ing subsided — the Captain was spared. 

>-• 
Interesting Sequel of the above Anecdote, 

A strong and partial attachment to the country in which he 
bad served, with djstinofiijshed reputation, and united with it 
an arxious des're to meet the early companions of h>.s youth, 
several of whom still survived, having induced the Judge to visit 
tiie South. He left Richmond with that intent, in the winter 
of 1S26, and had proceeded on his journey, as far as Guildford 
Court-house in Xorlh-Cdrolitia, when an accidental overturn of 
hi.': v'ig put a check to his progress. He had broken a shaft, 
and w;»3 not without a sufficiency of bruises, to make a tempo- 
rary suspension of his journey desirable. A happy chance 
pointed out a wagon-maker's work-shop, immediately at hand, 
and, at a httle d;s! mce, the house of Mr. Tatam, a gentleman 
of ri^spectability, where he was assured he would in^et w;th a 
kind and hospitable reception. It nov>'"occurfed to Judge Joha- 



120 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

stoi\*s recollection, that he could uot be i*ar removed from the 
spot in which he had first met the enemy, and witnessed the mas* 
sacre of poor Gillies. To ascertain the fact, he related the 
adventure above stated to a company assembled around Mr, 
Tatam's fire-side, a; id speedily perceived by the expressive 
countenances oi severed of his auduors that the event was not 
unknown to them. When his narrative was concluded, a lady 
present feelingly exclaimed, '* I have heard my father relate the 
circumstances of that appallin*^ tragedy, and the death of Gil- 
lies, an hundrt d and a hundred times over, and without the 
sh2:htest dirierence from the statement you have just made. He 
is within a short di:stance — I will summon him here. He will 
be delifflUed to converse with you, and I am sure you will be 
glad to see him, particularly when i tell you that he was the 
individual who liad provided tise dinner for yoiu'self and bro- 
ther officers, which tiie near and rapid approach of the enemy 
compelled you to leave untouched. In a little time, Mr. Bruce, 
the gentleman in e-uestion, arrived. I will notattejnpt to state 
what the feelings of two genuine patriots must have been, on 
meeting after a separation of forty-two years, near tlie very 
spot where thi' one tirst engaged t!ie enemies of his country, 
and tlie other, at the conclusion of the action, with his own 
hands, connnitted the body of the murdered Bugler to the 
grave. I can ordy jndge of their sensations by the pleasure 1 
feel in giving it publicity. P»Ir. Bruce immediately ollered to 
point out the spot where Gdlies lay — and received the kind of- 
fers of hospitality which had, at first distinguished his feelings 
towards as the officers of the Legion, and a n fusal of them was 
only accepted, on the Judge's pleading urgent business, winch 
compelled him to go forward. When about to depart, he asked, 
as usual, " whai was to pay for the shelter and entertainment 
aftbrded him." " Sir," said Mr. I'atam, " a word on the sub- 
ject would cruelly woiind my feelings, your account with me 
was settled in the year 1781. Your conduct was a receipt in 
full." 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 121 



LIEUTENANT-COLONEL LEE* 

The conduct of Lee upon this, as well as every other occa- 
sion, was highly honourable to him. Envy, hatred and malice 
have, on various occasions, assailed his character. Even per- 
sonal courage has been denied him, but how is it possible to 
think ill of a man, of whom that intelligent Soldier, General* 
Charles Lee said — " this gallant youth came a Soldier from his 
mother's womb." Of whom General Greene said, in a letter, 
dated February 18, 1782, *' Lieut. Col. Lee retires, for a time, 
for the recovery of his health. I am more indebted to this offi- 
cer, than to any other, for the advantages gained over the enemy 
in the operations of the last campaign, and should be wanting 
in ij:ratitude, not to acknowledge the importance of his services, 
a detail of which is his best panegyric." Who, in the memo- 
rable whiskey insurrection, was selected by General Washing- 
ton to march into the interior of Pennsylvania, to put down, by 
his activity and decision, a revolt so disgraceful to America — 
and of whom Lord Cornwallis was known to say — " 1 am ne- 
ver at my ease when I know Lee to be in my neighbourhood, 
for he is prompt to discover the weak points in the position of 
my command, and certani to strike at them, when I' am least 
prepared to repel his attacks." I doubt if the calumnies which 
were levelled at his character ever reached him. Had they been 
communicated, I have not a doubt but that in the language of 
the Great Fabius, when reproached for avoiding a general en- 
gagement with Hannibal, he would have said — " I should be a 
coward, indeed, if 1 were to be terrified into a change of con- 
duct by groundless clamours and reproaches. The man is unfit 
to be trusted, who can be influenced by the clamours or caprice 
of those he is appointed to command." 

11. 



122 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



PETER JOHNSTON. 

That implicit confidence should not be placed in the reports 
of deserters, has often been exemplified. Lieut. Col. Lee, m 
his Memoirs detailing the most mteresting occurrences, which 
look place at the siege of Augusta, gives a striking example in 
point.* He states, that while rapid approaches were made by 
the besiegers against the British Post, commanded by Colonel 
Brown, an intelligent Sergeant of Artillery, who had pretended 
desertion expressly for the purpose of destroying the Maham 
Tower, likely from its commanding height to force a surrender, 
succeeded so far, by expressions of disgust, against the service 
be had quitted, and the commander under whom he had served, 
as to lull suspicion, and to be actually placed m the situation 
the best calculated to effect it — the Tower itself. Lee, however, 
reflecting on the character of his adversary, of whom he had a 
Tery exalted opinion, and prepossessed in favour of his military 
talents, concluded that mischief was contemplated, and in that 
belief, removing the Sergeant from the Tower, committed him 
to the charge of the Quarter Guard. Subsequent information 
proved the prudence of his conduct. Colonel Brown, after the 
surrender of the Post, frankly declaring-, that under the pretext 
of directing the fire of the besiegers against the Magazine of the 
Garrison, the Sergeant had engaged to use every art to gain 
admission into the Tower, and to destroy it. But, on the other 
hand, it has frequently happened that timely information re- 
ceived from deserters, of the mtended movements of an enemy, 
has saved many a valuable hie from destruction. I, with pe- 
culiar pleasure, mention one coanected with the achievements 
of my friend, Peter Johnston, which happened at the same pe- 
riod, and at the same place, where, had not intellisrence beeii 

* Vide Lee'6 Memoir?, p. 106 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 123 

♦communicated by a deserter of a contemplated attack on the 
trericfies, Johnston and his entire command must have been cut 
oft. The ditch of the besieo^ers was occupied \)y tliat officer, 
and twenty-four men. It was early in the nigbt when a British 
soldier rushed into it, and said to Lieut. .Johnston — " You know 
not, .Sir, the danger which threatens you, a party of forty men, 
Britisfj soldiers and Indians, is now paraded, and ready to throw 
themselves on your command, and tJie labourers at the head of 
your entrenchment, and without immediate precaution, you will 
be cut to pieces." Information was instantaneously commu- 
nicated to Captain Rudolpb, who, with the lie^^ion Infantry, 
was within a few hundred yards. Lieut. Johnston, at the same 
time, mounting his men on the reverse of the ditch, instructed 
them to remain, sitting on their hams, until an order to rise 
should be given ; when they were suddenly to gain their feet, 
and, with deliberate aim, fire on the approaching foe. In the 
interim, he posted a sentinel a hide in advance, in a situalioii 
in which he could perceive the first movements of the enemy 
leaving their works towards him. The sentinel soon brought 
intelligence that he had distinctly ascertained that the enemy 
were moving out of their fosse, which was not more than twenty 
yards from the head of the American entrenchment. Lieut. 
Johnston quickly heard, as a further evidence, the rattling of 
their cartouch boxes, and allowing them time to approacli still 
nearer, jrave the word to rise and fire. The effect was decisive. 
The British, instead of surprising, were themselves surprised. 
Contrary to expectation, they found their enemy prepared for 
their reception, and a very considerable portion of their force 
beiiif^ cut oif, the survivors fled with precipitation, and sought 
f«afety within their fortification. 



124 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



Interesting interview between Lieut. Johnston and Manner* 
ING, a Legionary Soldier. 

In the Anecdotes of the Revolution, already published,* the 
singular interview which took place between Cooper of tlie Le- 
gion and myself, is particularly detailed. I have lately heard 
from my friend, Peter Johnston, of one which occurred between 
himself and a Legionary Soldier, which has equal title to be 
recorded. The Lieutenant, now Judge Johnston, was riding 
his circuit, and stopped at a stream to water his horses, where 
a wagoner had halted his team for a similar purpose. Tiiere 
was something in the man's countenance that remmded the 
Judge of a former acquaintance, and he said, " permit me, my 
friend, to ask if your name is not Mannering." "Yes, Sir, 
(replied the wagoner, it is.") " Did you ever serve, rejoined the 
Judge?* "I did. Sir, in the Legion commanded by Henry 
Lee, I was attached to the infantry of that corps." " Do you 
remember your Lieutenant, friend ? (continued the Judge) — 
•* What ! little Peter Johnston ; O, full well do I remember him, 
the soldier's friend, as fine a white haired and spirited a youth as 
ever served. Then, " give me your hand, Mannering, and 
know that I am that very man." " You that man, replied the 
wagoner, — impossible, — Peter Johnston was a very likely youth, 
with light hair and fair skin, and you old gentleman are infirm 
and weather-beaten, and over and above, grey as a badger." 
A short conversation, however, set matters to rights. I will 
not pretend to relate what the feelings of the parties were, words 
would be inadequate to do justice to them. Suffice it to say, 
that the Judge was delighted to learn that his former companion 
in arms had thriven in the world, and was, at the period of 
their meeting returning home, having advantageously sold, at 
Abingdon, the crop of the preceding season. 

Page 153. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 125 



Interview between Lieutenant Johnston and Dennis 

Hampton. 

I shall now record another interview between my friend and 
a soldier of the Legion, which is not without interest. Not 
long after Congress had passed the act of March 18th, 1818, 
granting pensions to the surviving soldiers of the Revolutionary 
army, who were reduced to indigence, the Superior Court of 
Law for Lee county, Virginia, was in session, when a man, 
who appeared to be about sixty-two or sixty-three years of 
age, presented himself before the Judge, claiming the benefit 
of the act. Judge Peter Johnston, who was on the Bench, 
was instantaneously struck with his countenance, and im- 
pressed with the belief, that he had served under his command 
in the Legion Infantry • of Lee. To ascertain the fact, he 
therefore put the following interrogatories. " Did you at any 
time serve in the Continental army during the Revolutionary 
war?" " I was in that service from the commencement to the 
close of the war." " To what corps did you belong?" " To 
Lee's Legion." " Were you with your regiment when it left 
the Northern and joined the Southern army V " I was." 
"Do you remember any thing remarkable that occurred on 
ihe march at Petersburg?" "Nothing but that Colonel Lee 
ordered a man to be hung there for an unpardonable offence." 
" Do you recollect any particular circumstance that caused a 
great confusion at Guildford Court-House ?" "I only remember 
that a Tory was brought in a prisoner, about the time of our 
arrival there, who was picketted and severely burnt in the feet 
and between his toes to extort intelligence, and that no torture 
could induce him to speak." " What is your name." 
" William Hampton." There was no man of that name 
attached to the Legion," said the Judjre. " I have given my 
true name," said the soldier, " and did belong to the Legion." 

11* 



126 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

" Were you not wounded at Augusta, in Georgia, by a ball, 
which entered your foot at the instep, and passed out at the 
heel ?" " I was, sir, but how came you to know that." " Let 
me first ask further, who commanded your platoon when you 
were wounded ?" " Lieut. Peter Johnston." " Would you 
know your Lieutenant if you were now to see him?" " Cer- 
tainly, sir." " Do you recollect to whom you sold a stout 
flea-bitten horse, on the day after possession was obtained of 
the British post ?" He stared intently in the Judge's face 
for a few seconds, when recollection breaking suddenly on his 
mind, he exclaimed, rushing forward and extending his hand 
with an expression of great cordiality, " I sold him to you, 
sir." " Answer me truly then," said the Judge, *' is not your 
name, William Dennis ?" " William Dennis Hampton is 
my name." " You certainly were Dennis, when with the 
liCgion." '* True, sir, but ever since my return to the 
neighbourhood in which I lived before the war, I have taken 
the name of Hampton." " How is that to be explained," said 
the Judge. "Very easily," replied the soldier, "my mother's 
name was Dennis, my father's, Hampton ; they were never 
married, and I was known by my mother's name till her death, 
when 1 took the name of Hampton, in addition to that which 
i had previously borne." These multiplied interrogatories were 
put in order to discover the cause of the change of name, 
which being explained to the entire satisfaction of the Judge» 
it gave him particular pleasure to sign the certificate, which 
secured a pension to a veteran, who had ever been distinguished 
as an interepid soldier, and zealous friend to his country. 



JOSHUA DAVISON, OF LEE'S LEGION. 

Joshua Davison, a private dragoon in the Legion, who had, 
•n all occasions, behaved with distinguished gallantry, received 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 127 

at the battle of Guildford, so severe a sabre wound, as to be 
rendered unfit for immediate service. That every facility might 
be afforded for his recovery. Colonel Lee gave him permission 
to quit the army, and retire to his father's house in Prince 
Edvk^ard's county, Virginia; and the more easily to accomplish 
his journey, allowed him to take his charger along with him. 
The injury received, was in his right shoulder, which totally 
incapacitated him from using his sword-arm. Before his 
recovery was perfected, the invasion of Virginia was effected 
by Lord Cornvvallis, and Tarlton, with his usual activity, was 
scouring the country in every direction ; his particular aim 
being to destroy the stores said to be deposited at Prince 
Edward's Court- House. Davison hearing that a large body of 
British cavalry was near the spot which he inhabited, resolved 
at once to take a look at the enemy he had so often encoun- 
tered ; and his sword-arm being useless, loaded an old squirrel 
gun, and set out in search of them. It accidentally happened, 
that passing through ^ thick wood, he came upon a road, 
along which Tarlton had, but a moment before, led his com- 
mand. Determined to take a nearer view, he at once fell into, 
and followed on their trail. He had, however, advanced but 
a small distance, when he perceived a British dragoon, who 
had been plundering in the rear, rapidly advancing, who 
drawing his sword, exclaimed, " surrender immediately, you 
rebel rascal, or you die." " Not so fast, my good fellow,'* 
replied Davison, " I am not prepared to yield ;" when raising 
his squirrel gun, with his left hand, he lired it off, and laid 
his adversary dead at his feet; seized his horse and plunder, 
and carried them off in triumph. Some years after, a gentle- 
man asking him if he had been satisfied by killing a single 
man ? " By no means," he replied ; " I re-loaded my piece, 
and went in pursuit, but my firing had excited such alarm, 
and Tarlton fled with such expedition, that I could never havp 
overtaken him, or I would have had another shooW^ 



128 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



ROBERT HARVEY, OF THE LEGION. 

Robert Hai-vey, formerly a private dragoon in Lee's Legion, 
lately died at Firicastle. While actively engaged at Pyles' 
defeat, his horse was shot, and fell so suddenly and heavily 
upon him, that he found it impossible to extricate himself. A 
circumstance the more distressing, as a wounded Tory, who 
lay at a small distance, was using his utmost endeavour to 
take a decisive aim with his rifle, and dispatch him. His only 
chance for safety, rested on his remaining quiet under cover 
of his horse's body, till assistance could be afforded. At this 
moment. Captain Egghston, with a few dragoons, passed 
by the wounded man, and perceiving one of them ready to 
thrust his sword through his body, forbade it, as an act of 
unnecessary cruelty. Hai-vey, observing that the Tory, un- 
mindful of the favour shewn, (having a better aim at men 
elevated above him,) was about to fire, called aloud, " take 
care Captain Eggleston, or you are a dead man." The rifle 
was at the instant discharged, and the ball passed so near the 
Captain's ear, that it appeared to him that he had actually 
received a blow on the side of his head. Justly exasperated 
at the ingratitude of the wretch he had spared, Eggleston 
wheeled round, and by a thrust of his sword, dispatched him. 
Harvey was now relieved from the awkward position in which 
he lay, happy to escape not only the Tory, but the Catawba 
Indians, who were extremely active on this occasion, running 
over the ground for the sake of plunder, dispatching every 
wounded man, whether friend or foe. It gives me pleasure to 
state, that Harvey, at the conclusion of the war, by active 
industry, acquired a very haiidsome fortune, that he lived 
highly respected, and died regretted by all who knew him. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 129 



SERGEANT CUSACK, OF THE LEGION. 

This important semce was achieved before the Legion 
moved to the South ; but as the credit of it is due to a soldier 
of the regiment, I do not think that the recording of it in this 
place, will be deemed improper. While the British held pos- 
session of New- York, a gang of desperate marauders from 
that post, infested every part of the Jerseys. They were 
headed by Fenton, a robber of celebrity, whose activity 
destroyed every chance of travelling with security. To attempt 
his destruction, Sergeant Cusack, having six men under his 
orders, fitted up a wagon, in which such articles were exposed 
to view, as would, probably, allure to plunder, his associates 
being snugly concealed in its body. The stratagem proved 
successful : Fenton, and four of his associates, who incautiously 
rushed forward from a place of concealment, were fired on and 
left lifeless on the spot, while a reward of five hundred dollars, 
offered by the Governor of Jersey, was paid to the contrivers 
of it. 



I have still another Anecdote to relate, but of so melancholy 
a cast, as to be considered by some of my friends unfit for 
publication. That great severity was exercised towards a 
prisoner is true ; and that it would have been unpardonable 
had the slightest trait of humanity been exercised by the indi- 
vidual, when he first burst into the apartment of the man, 
whose life he threatened to destroy, I am ready to grant. But 
the ferocity of his manner, gave just cause to apprehend that 
his object was to plunder, and his ultimate aim, death to the 
party assailed. It is difficuit, at this late day, to form an idea 
of the savage mode in wincii the war was conducted, more 
especially between the native whigs and tories. I remember 



130 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

full well, to have heard a Lieutenant in the British 71st Regi- 
ment say, that a few days previous to the battle of Guildford, 
when Lord Cornwallis in vain endeavoured to trace the move- 
ments of General Greene, and to penetrate into his intentions, 
a young lad was brought into camp, who, when questioned 
with regard to the position of the American army, steadily 
replied, " you will find it soon enough." Tarlton, who stood 
by, being highly exasperated, drew his sabre, and making a 
chop at the youth's hand, deprived it of one of his fingers, 
saying, " Will you now tell me where is Greene." With 
steady and undaunted countenance, the reply was to the same 
purpose as before, "You will know time enough." Five 
times was the blow repeated, but with as httle success. The 
youth had his secret, and he kept it. This cruelty was exer- 
cised by a Lieutenant Colonel of Dragoons, considered the 
pride of the army — its greatest ornament. " I wish," said 
Lord Cornwallis, (writing to him) " you could divide yourself 
into three parts — we can do nothing without you." Perhaps, 
the same spirit of decided attachment to the cause he sup- 
ported, actuated him, and he was obstinately silent from the 
fear of answering questions, which might be put to him, im- 
properly. At all events, the provocation was great, and 
examples of still greater barbarity were not wanting to palliate, 
if not to excuse the act. Immediately after the arrival of the 
Legion at Guildford Court-House, a countryman entered our 
quarters, (said my informant) having a prisoner in custody, 
and said to Colonel Lee, " While I was at table with my 
family, this fellow burst into the room, and putting the muzzle 
of his rifle to my breast, bid me deliver every thing that I had 
of value, or prepare to die. I knew that no sort of trust could 
be placed in this sort of gentry, and that the surrender of my 
property would be the signal for death. So I made a grab at 
his rifle, and turning it aside, it went OiT without doin<r me 
injury. A seveie struggle followed, when getting entire posses- 
«ioa of it, I stiuck him on the head with the but, and drove the 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 131 

Cock-pin pretty deep into his skiill. The severity of the wound 
made him my prisoaer, and I brought him aloag for exami- 
nation, for he seems a cunning chap, and I dare say, has plenty 
of intelhgence, if he can be made to part with it." To all 
the questions put to him, not a word was returned in reply. 
The wounded man was obstinately silent. Dr. Irvnie, Surgeon 
of the Legion, examining the head, found that the skull was 
fractured, and that the brain could be seen plainly through 
the hole made by the cock-pin. Thrusting his finger into it, 
and drawing it back again, a portion of the brain remained on 
the point of it. *' His obstinacy must be overcome," was the 
universal cry. " Picket him," said Lee. The order was 
obeyed, but without effect. A red-hot shovel was applied to 
the bottom of his feet, and even introduced between his toes, 
but not a feature of his countenance was altered, nor did he 
utter a word of complaint. " The severity of his wound," 
said Dr. Irvine, " has produced insensibility — all feeling is 
destroyed — the man must die." " Place him," said Colonel 
Lee, to Cornet George Carrington, " under a corporal's ouard, 
and be you answerable for him." The orders were obeyed. 
Night came on, and Carrington was quietly reposing, whvii a 
musket was discharged, and a loud shout proclaimed that the 
prisoner had escaped. The fact was so — the wounded man, 
who had been playing a part, no sooner perceived that a 
chance of escape was alTorded, (the sentinel placed over him, 
becoming careless, from a conviction that one so much in- 
jured, could not run) than he leaped up and ran off, and though 
fired on and closely pursued, could not be overtaken. 



Peter Johnston was originally intended for the Church, 
his father's great object was to make him an Episcopal Min- 
ister; but he, himself, giving a preference to a m Istary pro- 
fession, he clandestinely quitted the paternal maut^ion, $in^ 



132 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

joined the Legion as a volunteer, and candidate for a com* 
mission. I have already said enough of him to prove, that he 
was a prudent, active and most intrepid soldier. His diligence 
in acquiring a knowledge of his profession was great — his 
attachment to literature, very conspicuous. Whenever there 
was the least respite from duty, while his brother officers were 
seeking amusement, or indulging in dissipation, Johnston 
would always be found at his studies. The war concluded, 
he returned to his father's house, and was well received. His 
thoughts were immediately turned to law and politics. He 
acquired celebrity at the bar, and was elected to the honourable 
station of Speaker of the House of Representatives. He did 
not, however, throw aside his youthful propensities, and actu- 
ally figured as a General Officer at the head of the Virginia 
Militia ; but being now more inclined to civil life, he accepted 
the appointment of Judge in some of the upper districts of the 
State, and now honoured, esteemed and admired by all 
who know him, resides, in the enjoyment of great comfort, at 
Abingdon, in Washington county. The Judge was early 
married to a lady of a most estimable character, and particu- 
larly distinguished by her talents and accomplishments. He 
has been the father often children, nine sons and one daugh- 
ter, all of whom now live, with the exception of the eldest son, 
who has been dead for several years, leaving a disconsolate 
widow, who needs only to be seen to be admired and loved. 
I have often heard her declared, the very counterpart of hef 
mother-in-law. The sons are all active, industrious and 
amiable men, and the daughter, a young lady of high promise. 



CAPTAIN J. EGGLESTON. 

I must apologize to my readers, and, in a particular manner 
to his family, for the incorrectness of my statement relative to 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 133 

the impatience which he displayed at the period that he lost 
his leg by amputation.* To my friend, Judge Johnston, I feel 
particularly indebted for the information that has made me sen- 
sible of my error, and enabled me to correct it. He assures mc 
that after the decree of the attendant surgeons on the necessity of 
taking off the leg, that Major Eggleston submitted to the ope- 
ration with the most exemplary composure and becoming forti- 
tude, and that not the slightest sign of impatience was shewn 
by him from its commencement till it was completely finished. 

I have erred too in another respect. I have attributed to 
him the capture of an entire foraging party of the British, on 
the retreat of their army from Ninety-Six. Now I have no 
right to force upon him an honour that he never claimed. The 
act was Armstrong's, and Eggleston, with the frankness and 
generous feeling of a soldier, never failed to acknowledge it, 
Lee, knowing that the rich settlements south of Fridigs's Ferry, 
could alone supply the enemy with the forage vvhich they 
would require, detached Eggleston, having Armstrong under his 
command, to the probable scene of action. An advantageous 
position was immediately taken, and their approach expected 
with anxious solicitude. A party of dragoons veiy speedily 
appeared, but from the mistiness of the day, their numbers 
could not be ascertained, and Eggleston immediately counter- 
manded the order to charge, which had been given to Arm- 
strong, till it could be satisfactorily discoveied. Armstrong, 
however, who was one of the best and most intrepid soldiers 
that ever existed, either did not, or pretended not to hear the 
order of his commander, and dashed forward with irresistible 
impetuosity. Disarmed the leader of the British party, and so 
completely put them to route, that forty-five prisoners, together 
with all the foraging wagons, were taken without the loss of a 
single man. Congratulated on the importance of so brilliant 
an achievement, Eggleston, with great modesty, acknowledged 
that the credit of it was altogether due to his gallant com- 

* Vide First Series, p. 125. 
12 



134 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

panion, *' for had my orders been obeyed," he said, " our 
triumph, in all probability, would not have been so perfect — a 
greater number of the enemy might have eluded pursuit and 
and escaped." 



CAPTAIN LINDSAY. 

With this officer I never had the honor to form an acquain- 
tance ; he had quitted the service before I joined the Legion ; 
but I have heard his military character very highly spoken of, 
and there is one instance of his intrepidity and skilful man- 
agement, in imposing upon his enemy, that entitles him to 
particular commendation. To him, it was unquestionably 
owing, that Colonel Lee, and the detachment of the Leg'on 
which he commanded, escaped captivity, when surprised at the 
Spread Eagle Tavern, near Philadelphia. Lindsay, while bar- 
ricading the door of the Tavern, the more effectually to keep 
out the enemy, received a severe wound in the hand, which 
incapacitated him from the further use of his arms. Having 
nothing to do below, made his way to an upper apartmer»t, and 
pretending to see the approach of friends from a neighbouring 
wood, set up a loud huzza, and beckoning with great eager- 
ness, as if to accelerate their movements, so completely deceived 
the British, who imagined that a strong reinforcement was at 
hand, that they galloped off with precipitation, leaving Colonel 
Lee at liberty to quit the house, and retire at his leisure. 



DR. MATTHEW IRVINE. 

A short sketch of the services of this meritorious officer, is 
given in my Frst Series, page 134. I am not satisfied with it. 
1 have mentioned that his great fault, if fault it can be called. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 135 

was the two constant exposure of his person in action, being 
frequently found in the heat of battle, when his post should 
have been in the rear, attending to the wounded. A departure, 
however, from the strict line of duty was productive on some 
occasions of ofreat advantage. At Eutaw. for instance, Irvine 
could not avoid the temptation of taking a near view of the 
battle, and seing General Greene alone, (his aids-de-camp 
being detached to different parts of the line Avith orders) he 
rode up, and assured him that he was ready to execute any 
commands that he might honour him with. " Quick then, 
(said Greene) to Colonel O. Williams, order him to bring for- 
ward his command with trailed arms, charge the enemy with 
the bayonet, and make the victory our own." The message 
was delivered with promptitude, and produced all the effect 
expected from it. Dr. Irvine married a iady at the conclusion 
of the war, distinguished for her patriotic attachment to her 
country, and settled, as a physician in Charleston. Let his 
medical friends speak more particularly of liis professional 
celebrity. I shall be content to say, that for humanity to the 
poor, hospitality to strangers, warm and enthusiastic attach- 
ment to his friends, and perfect devotion to his family, no man 
has been more beloved and admired in society, than Dr. Irvine. 



PARTICULAR ACCOUNT OF COLONEL BEAU- 
FORT'S DEFEAT.* 

Colonel Beaufort commanded a detachment of three hun- 
dred men, whom he had collected at Petersburg, in Virginia, 
and marched them to the South, that they might join their 
respective Regiments in garrison in Charleston. Arriving at 
Lenud's Ferry on the Santee, he received intelligence of the 

* Communicated by Colonel H. Boyer of Fincastle, then acting as 
Adjutant to the Corps. 



136 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

surrender of the City, and being at a loss what course to pur- 
sue, sent an express to General Huger, the Continental officer - 
of the liighest rank in Carolina, for instructions. An order 
was received to retire to Hillsborough, in North-Carolina, 
taking Camden in the route, in order to remove the ammuni- 
tion and military stores deposited there, together with thirty 
or forty British prisoners, previously captured. If unable to 
remove the stores, his orders were to destroy them. Colonel 
Beaufort executed the order with precision. On his arrival at 
Camden, such stores as could not be removed were thrown 
into a neighbouring creek, and his route continued via the ■ 
Waxavv settlement, towards Hillsborough. On the morning 
of the day on which the corps was attacked, Captain Adam 
Wallace, (Beaufort having resolved to halt for a day, in order 
to refresh his horses, which, from the heavy loads which they 
drew, were nearly exhausted,) invited Adjutant Boyerto walk 
out with him. The latter observing that the spirits of his 
companion were unusually depressed, inquired the cause, and 
was answered, " I have known, for two or three days, that I 
am to die on this day." Bowyer laughed at what he deemed 
idle superstition ! Wallace became angry, and said, " You 
know full well, Sir, that I am not afraid of death. Whatever 
event may occur, I shall do my duty." The approach of a 
youth on horse-back, put an end to the conversation.— 
"Where from, my lad," exclaimed Bowyer. *' I left Ridge- 
ley's mills this morning," he replied, '* and on my way hither, 
passed a large body of troops, most of whom were mounted — 
the rest well armed, and on foot." Wallace, turning quickly to 
Bowyer, asked " Do you not think my anticipations likely to 
be accomphshed V The lad was conducted to Colonel Beau- 
fort, and, without the slightest deviation, repeated the infor- 
mation first communicated. The continuation of the retreat 
was instantaneously resumed, but the corps had scarcely pro- 
ceeded two miles, before the sound of Tarlton's bugles was 
heard, and a British officer was perceived riding forward, 



REVOLUTIOrVARY ANECDOTES. 137 

bearing a flag of truce. Adjutant Bovvyer was instructed to 
meet him. Captain Kinloch, tiie advancing officer of the 
British, told Bowyer, that he could make no communication 
to him, and demanded a personal interview with Beaufort. A 
message to that effect being sent to the Colonel, he immedi- 
ately repaired to the spot. Captain Kinloch then proposed, 
on the part of Tarlton, that Beaufort, and his detachment, 
should surrender as prisoners of war, on the same terms as 
those granted to the Garrison of Charleston, stating, at the 
same time, that his strength was upwards of six hundred men, 
half of them cavalry. The terms were, without hesitation, 
rejected by Beaufort, who did not believe that a force as strong 
eould have reached the neighbourhood through which he was 
marching. Captain Kinloch assured him, on his honour, as 
a gentleman and officer, that his statement was correct ; but, 
Beaufort, maintaining his opinion, dismissed the flag, return- 
ed to the ground where his detachment was drawn up, across 
the road, assembled his officers, and consulted with them on 
the subject of Tarlton's demand. The general opinion con- 
curred with that of Beaufort. One officer, (Bowyer, thinks 
Captain Clayborne Lawson, of the 4th Virginia Regiment,) 
proposed that the wagons should be brought together and a 
barrier to the enemy formed, behind which, the detachment 
should be posted. But, it was suggested that such a plan 
would probably further the views of the British commander, 
who might have sent forward only a small body of soldiers to 
amuse and detain Beaufort till a force adequate to his destruc- 
tion could be brought up. Every arrangement was, in the 
interim, made for action. The British Cavalry quickly 
appeared, and commenced an attack, which was unsuccessfully 
continued for about fifteen minutes, when Major M'Aithur, 
who commanded the Infantry, came up. The British force 
exceeded Beaufort's detachment in number. Weakened by a 
variety of extra duty, the command scarcely exceeded two 
hundred men. M'Arthur, attacked the left with the bayonet, 

12* 



138 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

whiJe the Cavalry assaulted the right. The officers command- 
inoc {jlatoons on Beaufort's left, being; all killed, and the com- 
marid thrown into confusion, Adjutant Bowyer was ordered to 
advance with a flag, and to say to Tarlton, that he was willing 
to accept the terms offered before the action began. The 
Adjutant remonstrated by saying, that as the firing still con- 
tinued, the execution of the order would be impracticable, 
exposing the bearer of the flag to the shot of both parties. 
Beaufort repeated his orders, in positive terms, and the Adju- 
tant rode forward, with a handkerchief displayed on the 
point of his sword. When close to the British commander, 
he delivered Beaufort's message, but a ball at the moment, 
striking the forehead of Tarlton's horse, he plunged, and both 
fell to the ground, the horse being uppermost. Extricated by 
his men from so perilous a position, the exasperated Colonel 
rose from the ground, and ordered the soldiers to despatch 
him. They immediately gathered round, and several cuts 
were made at him, which he had the good fortune to parry and 
avoid. By this time. Captain John Stokes and Lieut. Willi- 
son, who occupied a position opposite^o that where the Adju- 
tant was surrounded by the British Dragoons, and saw the 
danger impending over him, directed their platoons to fire at 
the group. They were well obeyed, and the bullets thrown 
among the party around the Adjutant, frightening the horses, 
gave him an opportunity of dashing through them, and effect- 
ing his escape unhurt. His horse was seriously wounded, but 
not sufficiently so to prevent his carrying his master to a place 
of security. The overwhelming force of the British then pre- 
vailed, and a dreadful massacre of the detachment followed. 
The rage of the British soldiers, excited by the continued fire 
of the Americans, while a negotiation was offered by flag, 
impelled them to acts of vengeance that knew no limits. 
Captain Adam Wallace, too truly predicted his own death. 
He fought with consummate intrepidity as long as he had 
strength to raise his arm, and though quarter was tendered, 
refused to surrender. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 139 



SERGEANT MITCHELL. 

The intrepidity of this excellent soldier, merits particular 
notice. There were no Ensigns attached to the command, 
and when it was ascertained that a contest must ensue with 
Tarlton, the Adjutant selected Mitchell to bear the colours, as 
he had always been distinguished for correctness of conduct, 
and was connected with a family of high respectability. In 
the progress of the battle, Tarlton led an attack on the centre 
of the line where Mitchell was posted, with his Standard. 
The intrepid Sergeant was cut down, and the staff of his 
colours broken. Grasping the part to which the colours were 
attached, he retained it firmly in his hands, while dragged to a 
distance of fifteen yards. The British Dragoons now gather- 
ed round him, and would immediately have mangled him to 
death, but Captain Rinloch dismounted and protected him 
from their rage, declaring that so gallant a soldier, though an 
enemy, should not perish. Mitchell survived his wounds, 
though severe, removed at the close of the war to Georgia, 
became, from his acknowledged merits, a Brigadier General, 
and was, but a few year back, a hale and hearty man. This 
narrative of facts, comes within my own knowledge, except 
what I have said of Sergeant Mitchell, which I received from 
Judge Stokes. (Signed) 

HENRY BOWYER. 

A true copy attested, 

Peter Johnson. 



I was assured by General Thomas Pinckney, who visited 
the Hospitals at the Waxaws, in which the wounded were 
left, that he found many of them absolutely naked, having 
been stripped of their clothes, and that the average of wounds 



140 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

inflicted, amounted to sixteen to eacli man. This sanguinary 
massacre was one of Tarlton's most atrocious acts of barbarity, 
yeJ it exalted him in the favour of Lord Cornwalhs, and 
raised his military reputation, in the opinions of the British 
nation, to the most exalted degree of perfection. That un- 
necessary severity was exercised, cannot be doubted. Five 
out of six of the American party, by the victor's official 
accounts, were either killed, or so badly wounded as to be 
incapable of being removed from the field ; vvhile Jive only of 
the British were killed and twelve wounded. I had always 
thought that this instance of deliberate barbarity was unpar- 
alleled, but a friend of mine,* who was actually a visitor at 
the Castle at Dublin, on the evening that a victory was an- 
nounced, gained by Sir Charles Asgill, over the insurgents, 
assured me, that it was stated that twelve hundred men were 
slaughtered on one side, and but fourteen killed on the other. 
Curiosity, it was said, had led many of the peasantry to appear 
on the field, merely as lookers on, and from the desire to 
witness a battle, but the rage for slaughter, once began, the 
sword was used without too scrupulous an examination of 
principles, and all who came within its reach perished. 



RALPH IZARD, SEN. 

Strict propriety required that I should have introduced the 
name of Mr. Izard, among the patriots, the most distinguished 
in the Civil Department, for there was not in the State, a 
man of more genuine and inflexible republican virtue, than 
himself. Had his disposition been more mild and conciliat- 
ing, there can be no doubt, but that his usefulness would have 
been of far greater consequence, in promoting the cause of his 

* Mr. J. A. Smith. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 1.41 

eountry, but he knew not how to unbend ; his general deport- 
ment was austere and forbidding, precluding the possibihty of 
that free and confidential interchange of sentiment, essential 
to the perfection of political arrangements. His integrity 
was universally acknowledged ; his firmness and devotion to 
the cause he had espoused, not to be shaken, and it would 
have been as impossible to have turned tlie sun from its course, 
as Mr. Izard from what he conceived to be the path of honour. 
This steadiness of principle, made him less t 'lerant than he 
would otherwise have been, of the infirmities of others. 

"He knew not how to wink at human frailty, 
Or pardon weakness, that he never felt." 

He considered the honour of his country so closely con- 
nected with his own, that the slightest trespass against the 
one, was regarded as an insult to the other. On the election, 
which took place shortly after the evacuation of Charleston 
by the British, I had the honour of serving as a Representa- 
tive from the same Parish with Mr. Izard, and particularly 
remember, on one occasion, an occurrence that will forcibly 
prove what I have asserted of his undeviating perseverance in 
the line of his duty. On some irregularity in debate, Mr. 
Izard, who had delivered his sentiments with more than ordi- 
nary warmth, was called to order by two members at the 
same instant. Mr. John Hunter, a sound man and true, was 
the one, the otiier an individual of fluctuating principles, who 
had more than once changed his political creed, adhering to 
the one or other side of the contending parties, as appeared 
the most congenial to his interests. He had once been in the 
Continental service. After the capture of Charleston, had 
changed his blue for a red coat, and continued with the Bri- 
tish, till their blunders and uncontrolled severities, exciting the 
indignation of every individual, convinced him, that by the 
relinquishment of all that they had gained, they could alone 



14^ REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

escape the chastisement that awaited them, from the trium- 
phant army of Greene. Removing into the interior country, 
and pre-eminently distinguished by his plausibility, in making, 
on all occasions, the worst appear the better cause, he effectu- 
ally removed every speck of blame from his character, and was 
returned a Member to the Legislature. His course was now 
comparatively easy, and by dint of effrontery, and unlimited 
abuse of the friends he had lately quitted, if he did not per- 
suade himself, at least persuaded others, that he was a perfect 
model of excellence, in every patriotic feeling. Calling 
loudly to order, he said, " Mr. Speaker, let me entreat, that 
you will compel the gentleman to confine himself to the mat- 
ter of debate. He is turning from his subject altogether.'* 
Irritated by the interruption, and still more so by the ungra- 
cious mode in which the accusation was made, Mr. Izard, 
regarding him for some time with profound contempt, exclaim- 
ed, " I am taxed, Mr. Speaker, by an individual, with turning 
from my subject ; you. Sir, who know me well, and every 
member present, who does know me, will do me the justice to 
say, that inconsistency forms no part of my character. My 
accuser, may twist, and he may turn, without the risk of loss 
of character. He cannot know degradation." Then, turn- 
ing, with a bow of profound respect to Mr. Hunter, he added, 
" You, Sir, are a gentleman, I will reply to you immedi- 
ately." 

When the motion for the establishment of County Courts 
throughout the State, was first made in the House of Repre- 
sentatives, Judge Pendleton, who was the mover, and most 
strenuous advocate, endeavouring to parry the severe sarcasms 
of Major Thomas Pinckney,* and others, said, rather tartly, 



* Judge Pendleton, among other arguments in favour of County Courts, 
said, "that they ivere admirably well calculated to promote sociability, 
and t-' -T<engtli n the ties of friendship existing between gentlemen living 
in the same neighbourhood." "Mr. Speaker," said Major Pinckney, 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 148 

** these gentlemen know not the inconveniences, to which the 
poor man is put, by being obliged to seek for justice at a dis- 
tant Court, and at a great increase of expense, when, by the 
introduction of the system proposed, law will be brought to 
every man's door. Their riches makes the resource but of 
little importance to them. The poor feel it. The rich are 
beyond its reach." " Mr. Speaker," exclaimed Mr. Izard, 
with great agitation, both of voice and manner, " I a.n now 
able to solve a mystery, heretofore inexplicable. I have lately 
travelled in from the North, and to speak in military phrase, 
precisely in the trail of the Honorable Judge, the magni- 
tude of his purchases have, I must confess, filled me with 
astonishment. Negroes in one section of the country, lands 
on speculation in another. Carriages in this city — draught 
horses, and agricultural implements in that. Blooded animals 
in all directions. And, why, let me ask, this inordinate desire 
to possess property 1 I will tell you, in the gentleman's own 
words. He has ascertained that riches sets a man above law, 

'' there are few men better qualified to speak on this subject than myself. 
I have, as a recruiting officer, very frequently attended at County Court 
meetings, and invariably found them the best rendezvous for the enlist- 
ment of men. If gaming, drinking, cocl<-fighting, horse racing, biting, 
and gouging, are considered as likely to promote sociability and liberal 
feelingsbetween neighbours, I agree with the gentleman in opinion, and will 
myself become the advocate of his favorite system. But my views of the 
subject are at present widely different, and with good reason; the cup of 
conviviality, it is true, was in constant circulation, but rarely with other 
effect than to produce strife and contention. Ihe feuds of the parties 
Were always advantageous to me. My comrades, in proportion to the 
quantity of liquor swallowed, grew more affectionately attached to me. 
1 considered my brother lawyers as sure game. I invariably enlisted a 
considerable portion of the Members of the Bar, and had it not beers for 
respect to the Bench, I conscientiously believe, that in many instances 
I could have prevailed on their Honours, the Justices, to have accepted 
of the bounty-money also, and to have quitted the soft delights of inglori- 
ous ease, to engage in the shocks of battle, and all the dangers and tttr* 
moils of active service." 



144 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

and he is anxious to make the most of his own notable disc©- 
very." 

As to the excellence of his understanding, and goodness of his 
heart, there were but few men of his day, that were considered 
as his superiors. Unbounded sacrifices had been made by 
him to support the cause of his country ; his entire time and 
his talents were devoted to the performance of the duties which 
the high stations to which he was called, required of him ; yet 
prejudices, arising, as I have stated, from his distant behaviour 
to all who were not his immediate friends and associates, in 
mixed society, caused insurmountable prejudices to exist 
against him. I have one strong proof in point. General 
Barnwell, who was an enthusiastic admirer of Mr. Izard, 
knowing that he would, at any time, make a libation of his 
blood to serve his country, endeavoured to obtain the consent 
of Colonel Wadsworth of the interior, on most subjects a man 
of unbounded liberality, to join him in the endeavour to make 
Mr. Izard the Governor of the State, at the moment when 
French aggressions gave strong indication of a determination 
to disturb the peace and tranquillity of the Union. " Barn- 
well, (said the Colonel) I would willingly promote your wishes 
on any other point, but with regard to Mr. Izard, my mind 
has long been made up. He may, perhaps, in an hour of hu- 
mility, acknowledge the superiority of the Almighty, but I am 
persuaded, that overall created beings, he believes that he has 
such decided superiority in every respect, that he believes that 
all who look on him, view him with reverential awe, and that 
in every point there is an obligation to yield the most perfect 
submission to all that he is pleased to deem right and proper 
to be done. For such a man I can never vote." 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 145 



Particulars relative to the Death of Mr. John Inglis, hilled 
by an unfortunate mistake ^ at a Plantation^ near Charleston^ 
in the year 1781. 

The following extract from a series of letters, published in 
the New- York Statesman, was sent to me from Philadelphia, 
by my friend Dr. Mease, with a request that I would inquire 
into the particular circumstances of the case, and forward 
them to him, that they might be transmitted to friends ia 
Scotland, who (though strongly prepossessed in favour of the 
American character aud conduct of our citizens, durintf the 
struggle to obtain the independence of tbeir country) deciired 
themselves cruelly mortified by the represenJation of a murder, 
distinguished by wanton and unparalleled barbarity. 

EXTRACT. 

" A tablet on the wall, opposite my seat, very forcibly at 
traded my attention, and did not bespeak a very liberal spirit 
in the citizens of Inverness, towards the Americans. It was 
erected in memory of Mr. Inglis, sometime merchant at Sa- 
vannah, Georgia. The mscription states, ' that he was mur- 
dered by a band of ruffians, hired by the execrable Conjfress, 
on account of his fidelity to his king and country, while living 
with a friend, near Charleston, South-Carolina.' " — Carter'' s 
Travels. 

In my first publication of Revolutionary Anecdotes, (p. 251) 
the death of Mr. Inglis is mentioned, with the strongest ex- 
pressions of sincere regret. Called upon as I have been, for 
particulars relating to it, I shall now give a full statement of 
facts, as they occurred, declaring a thorough conviction in my 

13 



146 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

own mind of their perfect authenticity. I was intimately ac- 
quainted with Mr. Inghs in Europe, and knew himfi to he, in 
his pohtical opinions, a man of the greatest hberahty, adhering 
to the cause of Britain, but without any harsh or illiberal 
prejudice against America. He arrived in Charleston, in the 
year 1780, seeking to improve his fortune as a mercantile 
adventurer, hut meeting with no immediate success, was in- 
duced by his friend and relative. Dr. Cletheral, to accompany 
him on a visit to his plantation, on the Horse-Shoe, about 
forty miles distant from the city. Colonel Harding, and a few 
of his followers, who, about that period, had raised the standard 
of opposition against the tyranny exercised universally through- 
out the country, by the British army, were in the neighbour- 
hood in close concealment, and Dr. Cletheral being con- 
sidered an obnoxious character, an immediate determination 
was formed to secure him. His house was accordingly sur- 
lounded, and entered with so little noise, that Mr. Robert 
Read, of Prince William's, who was one of the party, assured 
me that he roused Dr. Cletheral out of a sound sleep, before 
he knew that he had any danger to apprehend from an enemy. 
Mr. Inglis hearing a noise in his friend's chamber, quitted his 
bed, and ran into an entry that separated their apartments, 
when being called upon to declare his name, no sooner re- 
plied Inglis, than the contents of a rifle were poured into his 
breast — he fell, and expii ed without a struggle. Greatly agitated 
by so unlocked for an event. Dr. Cletheral feelingly exclaimed, 
" You have done a deed, gentlemen, which must cause your 
deepest regrets — Mr. Inglis is a perfect stranger in your 
country, who never cherished a thought or sentiment injurious 
to America." " How can you make that assertion, (exclaimed 
the man who had done the deed) and utter in our presence so 
gross a falsehood ; for a month has not elapsed, since Colonel 
Thomas Inglis had me haltered for a very trifling offence, and 
would have hung me, but for the interposition of an officer of 
the Regulars, whose humanity saved my life." " But (rejoined 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 147 

Dr. Cletheral,) the unfortunate victim of your wrath, is not 
Col. Thomas Inglis, but Mr. John lughs, a native of Inverness, 
lately arrived from Europe, who never, in a single instance, 
bore arms against America." " Then, indeed, (said the man, 
whose name was Frascr,) I bitterly lament my j)recipitation ; 
for I also am from Inverness, and knew John Inglis intimately 
well. We were school-fellows, and in our boyish days, play- 
fellows and friends. The intimacy. Doctor, subsisting between 
yourself and Colonel Thomas Inglis, caused the mistake — for 
hearing fhe name of your companion, I concluded that he 
must have been the man by whom I had been so cruelly out- 
raofed a little before, and I considered the thirst for vengeance 
justifiable both in the eyes of God and man." The facts, as I 
have related them, I had from Mr Read, who was present, 
and, at an after period, from the family of Mr. Inglis himself, 
with whom I lived on so intimate a footing, as to have accom- 
panied Mr. Alexander Inglis, brother to the deceased, to the 
field, where, in conjunction with Captain David Campbell, of 
the British sixty-third regiment, I had the good fortune to 
accommodate differences, and bring about a perfect reconcili- 
ation between the parties, who had been previously, intimate 
friends. 

To place a tablet then, on the wall of a Church, so incorrect 
in every particular, appears to trifle with truth, and wilfully to 
lie in the face of Heaven. It must necessarily too, keep alive 
prejudices that should long ago, have been buried in oblivion. 
I would appeal to the daughters of Mr. Alexander Inglis, now 
settled in Inverness, who must remember me well, and to Mr. 
John Deas Thompson, a respectable gentleman, attached to 
the Navy-Office of Great Britain, if they do not know me in 
capable of making a false statement relative to the unfortunate 
occurrence which took place, and even if they themselves, have 
Dot constantly heard it related, exactly as detailed by me. 



148 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



Howe's Narrative, relative to an American Officer. 

In the year 1785, I received the Anecdote which follows, 
!from General Robert Howe, of North-Carolina, then a resi- 
tlent in New- York : — 

•* I was walking some months since, in one of the principal 
streets of this city, when my attention was attracted by the 
remarkably handsome figure of a man, who, with a frantic 
wildness in his eyes, and a countenance filled with horror, 
betrayed the most unequivocal symptons of distraction. The 
phrenzy of passion seemed occasionally to subside, but the traces 
of a deep and settled melancholy that remained, left no doubt 
•with regard to the anguish that preyed upon his heart. His 
body was wasted to a skeleton, his complexion of a deadly 
paleness. His coat, that had once been regimental, was 
threadbare, and plainly indicated the poverty and wretched- 
ness of the wearer. Approaching nearer to him, 1, with grief 

and astonishment, recognized the features of Major , a 

youth of pre-eminently polite and amiable manners, and of 
distinguished bravery. At the same moment he perceived me, 
and noting the fixed attention with which I viewed him, at- 
tenjpted, with hurried steps, to avoid an interview, and retire. 
My heart beat high with pity and affection : I rushed towards 
him, and ere he had retreated many paces, held hiin firmly in 
my arms. Finding it impossible to avoid conversation, he 
strove to assume an air of cheerfulness and composure, and 
by every possible means, to turn my attention from the object 
in which my wiiole heart was interested, to wit, to discover the 
cause of the anguish which preyed upon him. ' Come, come, my 
brotiier soldier,' 1 said, ' let no foolish pride, no unwarrantable 
delicacy, tempt you to conceal your sorrows from a friend who 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 149 

loves you — I have secretly witnessed the tumults of your mind 
— an aoritatioii borderino^ on despair — and am resolved never 
to quit you, till you communicate the cause of your grief, and 
put it my power to restore your mind to its wonted tranquil- 
lity.' While yet I spoke, a boy, who had been sent to the Post 
Ofiice, presented a letter, and retired. The Major received it 
with trembling hand, anxiously broke the seal, and with pre- 
cipitation running his eyes over the contents, exclaimed in 
ecstasy—* My God, my God, I thank thee ! Your goodness 
alone has saved me from impending destruction — from the 
mad suggestions of my own wicked heart. How, my dear 
General, shall I presume to look upon you, when I coiifess, 
that though a soldier, I have shrunk from the frowns of adverse 
fortune, and f>eling myself unequal to the trial of combatting 
the miseries of poverty, had resolved, by my own sinful deed, 
to terminate existence. My pistols are loaded — they now lie ^ 
on my desk, and the hand which till now, has never been em- 
ployed, but in the field of g^lory and honour, would, within an 
hour, have been lifted a<jainst my own life. You are no 
stranger to the zeal with which I have served my country; but, 
probably, know not, that to support appearances, my fortune 
has been sacrificed — my youth having been spent in the ex- 
ercise of arms, my patrimony has been dissipated. Creditors, 
whose hearts knew no compassion, have driven me to distrac- 
tion. To die, seemed the only means by which I could escape 
the miseries of abject penury, and the horrors of a jail, A be- 
neficent Providence has saved me from the crime of self- 
destruction. By the letter which you saw me receive, I am 
informed of the death of a relation, who has unexpectedly left 
me a very considerable estate. My debts shall be paid, and 
through a life, which I shall endeavour to make useful to my 
country, next to my God, I shall return thanks to you, to . 
whose compassionate attention it is owing that I now exist.' "* 

13* 



150 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



Another Narrntwe^ respecting an unfortunate Officer. 

I introduce this Anecdote, with a view to caution my young 
countrymen not to place too great a reliance on their ability to 
guwd against, and repel the encroachments of vicious propen- 
sities. I cannot doubt, but that the individual, about whom I 
am about to speak, was, in the early career of hfe, in his own 
opinion, strong in virtue, and in his adhesion to just and dig- 
nified principles, firm as adamant ; yet, in an unlucky hour, 
his mind, impelled by the indulgence of heedless dissipation, 
his strength abandoned him, and he fell, never to rise again. 
I w^ould, on no consideration, name names. I will not even 
particularize the State to which he belonged. For worlds, I 
would not lacerate the feelings of surviving relatives, if such 
there be— who would know that the statement, though heart- 
rendin g in the extreme, is by no means exaggerated. Horatio^ 
fo sc I shall take the liberty to designate him, was born to 
fortune — his estate aflbrded him more than an ample compe- 
tency to supply all his wants ; he could give indulgence also 
to every reasonable desire. He entered the service at an early 
period of the Revolution, and by his zeal and activity, acquired 
Jboth rank and reputation. Promotion gave an opportunity to 
gain additional laurels, and he did not fail to improve it. His 
eharacter as an officer, stood high in the army ; and there 
were few names more formidable to the enemy, or more highly 
respected than that which he bore. Uncommonly handsome in 
person, and engaging in manners, there was a strong prepos- 
session in his favour wheresoever he appeared. Liberal as v\ ell 
as brave, that sentiment was uniformly cherished and improved. 
Pew men have ever enjoyed a greater share of favouritism than 
himself. The superiority of his personal attractions were, 
indeed, stich, that it was often said, that a better model would 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 151 

never be found to uiford a just representation of the God of 
War. His attachment to compauj proved his ruin. His 
income was not equal to the payment of his expenses — he 
became involved, and contracted heavy debts; to the payment 
of which, beina: altogether incompetent, he lost all respecta- 
bility of character, and rapidly depreciated, till sunk into the 
most abject state of wretchedness and depravity. When once 
the strict line of propriety is abandoned, there is no saying to 
what degradation the mind will not submit. Departure from 
duty is palliated and excused, and enormities justified, that 
would previously have been regarded with horror and detes- 
tation. He who was accustomed to give with liberality — whose 
purse was always open, while his friends stood in need of suc- 
cour and assistance, became now so eager to raise funds to 
support his extravagances, so little sensible of shame, so in- 
cessantly pressing in his demands on the generosity of all who 
were inclined to aid him, that he was considered a scourge to 
society, so decidedly obnoxious, that his friends and associates 
were compelled to withhold assistance, and leave him to his 
fate. Dissipation had regularly kept pace with the increase 
of pecuniary distresses. He drank to excess, and with the 
meanest wretches in society. Application for aid was next 
made to strangers and loungers about the taverns, and every 
pot-house, in the city he inhabited. This resource for a time 
afforded relief, it lasted only for a short period. It was not 
even then, that the climax of his miseries had arrived. Among 
other talents possessed, he was an excellent musician, and was 
a perfect master of the violin. A talent, which had been once 
a source of pleasure and amusement, was now exercised to gain 
bread. But bad habits, strengthened by indulgence, had be- 
come so powerful and inveterate, that his services were en- 
gaged, even at fandangoes and negro weddings ; and where 
money could not be obtained, he was content to stipulate for a 
sufficiency of food, and the liberty of calhng for liquor ad 
libitum. 



152 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



Spirit of Enterprize, a distingmshing characteristic of the 
American Troops. 

COLONEL WHITE, OF THE GEORGIA LINE. 

While the siesje of Savannah was carrying on, an enter- 
priz- was effected by Colonel White, of the Georgia line, 
which has more the air of a romance, rha!i of a reality, though 
unquestionably accurately stated by Dr. Ramsay, in his His- 
tory of the Revolution, in South-Carolina.* Captain French, 
ofiht' British army, had taken post with one hundred and 
eleven men, itear the river Ogechee. There were, at the same 
place, five vessels, manned^ with forty sailors, and carrying 
fron: four to fourteen guns each. The whole surrendered to 
Colonel White, Captain Elholm, and three others. It may- 
well he supposed that fitrat.igem was employed by the victori- 
ous party. Colonel White, by keeping up a number of fires, 
judiciously placed around, impressed on the enemy the belief 
that he was completely surrounded, and that an imnipHiate 
surrender would ah ne save his men, from being cut to pieces. 
On a peremptor call for submission. Captain French agreed 
to lay down his arms. The vessels were burned, and the 
whole command being cautiously deprived of the means of 
defence, were marched into camp at Sunbury, by the proud 
and happy conquerors. 



ACTION AT KING'S MOUNTAIN. 

The ^ost s't Kinir's Mountain was commanded by Colonel 
Ferguson, one of the most intelligent and intrepid officers of 

Vol. ii. pp. 42, 43. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 153 

the British army, and I may safely add, one of the most dan- 
gerous enemies to America, from the influence he had acquired 
over the tory inhabitants of the upper Districts, and liis inde- 
fatigable zeal in training them to arms and strengthening 
their attachments to the Royal interests. He had at his post, 
upwards of one hundred Regulars, and a thousand men of 
his new levies. In opposition to him, several parties of volun- 
teers, under their respective leaders, Cleaveland, Campbell, 
Shelby, Savier and Williams, from the mountains, Lacy and 
Hdl, from the surrounding country, approached with decided 
hostility. Superiority of command was not claimed by any 
individual. Guided by their resentments, and determined to 
check the encroachments of a merciless foe, the post was 
assailed at three different points, but in repeated instances 
without the least effect. The several attacking columns were 
beaten back with loss. The resolution to conquer, was not, 
however, to be subdued. The charge was again and again 
renewed, when Colonel Ferguson falling, by a well-directed 
rifle shot, the tories became panic-struck ; called aloud for 
mercy, and without further opposition, surrendered. It may 
be truly said, that hardy enterprize, supported by irresistible 
courage, produced this momentous achievement, important in 
its consequences beyond calculation ; for, had victory 
crowned the efforts of Ferguson, to repel his enemy, not only 
vigour would have been added to the exertions of the tories, 
who had decidedly favoured the Royal cause, but the waver- 
ing might have been induced to side with the triumphant 
party, and enabled Colonel Ferguson, to accomplish the great 
object of his ambition, to depress the American people by the 
exertions of their own degraded and perfidious brethren. It 
>vould have afforded an excellent opportunity for two such 
distinguished tories as Cunningham aiid Fletchall, to have 
united their forces to his victorious command, who had pre- 
viously, from the confession of one of their most intonate 
associates to Dr. Read, kept aloof till it should be ascertained 



154 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

which army was most likely to gain an ascendancy over the 
other, when they could, with safety, make a choice of sides. 



COLONEL MEIGS. 

The expedition of this meritorious officer against the Bri- 
tish post at Sagg's-harbour, Long Island, richly deserves to be 
recorded. Colonel Meigs had served with distinguished re- 
putation in Canada, and was present at the assault of the 
lines at Quebec. In the orders of General Wajne, on the 
reduction of Stoney Point, we find him highly complimented, 
and thanked, for the gallant manner in which he led his Re- 
giment to the attack. But, the celerity of his movements — the 
clear perceptions of his judgment, in arranging his plans, and 
carrying them successfully into effect, in the attack of the foe 
at Sagg's-harbour, was the event in his military career, which, 
in the highest degree, exalted his reputation. 

Ordered by General Parsons, who had received intelligence 
that the enemy were making large collections of grain, forage 
and horses, on the East end of Long Island, to impede their 
operations and attack their posts, he embarked with his com- 
mand in thirteen whale-boats, and pressing rapidly forward, 
partly by land, and partly by water, with one hundred and 
thirty men of his detachment, arrived at Sagg's-harbour, attack- 
ed the enemy with fixed bayonets, and though greatly annoyed 
by the fire of a sloop of twelve guns, and seventy men, burnt 
twelve brigs and sloops, five hundred and twenty tons of press- 
ed hay, oats, corn, and other forage, in considerable quantity, 
ten hogsheads of rum, and a large store of merchandize, and 
carried oil ninety prisoners, soldiers and sailors, having, in 
twenty-five hours, transported his detachment ninety miles, 
without the loss of a single man, killed or wounded. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 155 



COLONEL BARTON. 

I am sensible that I am about to repeat a thrice-told tale, 
but tiiere is so much the appearance of romantic gallantry in 
the exploit of Colonel Barton, that I trust I shall be pardoned 
for making still another efForl, to keep it in view of all who 
delitrht to give to patriotic enterprize the applause which is its 
due. Sometime m July, 1777, Lieutenant Colonel Barton, 
having received rnformaiion that Major General Prescott, 
who commanded the British and foreign troops, on Rhode 
Island, had estabhshed his ilead-Quarters at a country house, 
at some distance fiom the main body of his army, resolved on 
the attempt to bring him oifas his prisoner. To accomplish 
his purpose, thirty-eight men were selected from the line, 
who, beiiig embarked in five boats, set out on the expedition. 
The task which they had to perform vvas di^cult and dan- 
gerous. The British posts on the IslanJ, were many and 
strong, and report -d to be over on the alert ; while a consi- 
derable Naval arniameiit protected it on every side from inva- 
sion. The ships and guard-boats being passed in the dead of 
the night with muffled oars, and no discovery made, Lieut. 
Colonel Barton landed his party, and having first secured the 
sentinel, entered the General's apar rnenr, and took him from 
his bed. His Aid-de-camp made a desperate attempi: to 
escape by leaping from a windo»v, but was pursued and speedi- 
ly secured also. Expedition was now necessary and essential . 
to safety. A larure body of Draooons lay in the neiglibour- 
hood, and signal rockets, thrown into the air from diiierent 
quarters, showed that a general alarm had already spread. 
Every comfort was afforded the prisoners, that circumsiaaces 
would allow, and Lieut. Colonel Barton had, at early dawn, 
the good fortune to land rhem m ?at''ty, after a passa i;'^ often 
miles, at the spot within the American lines, from which he 



156 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

had set out. I remember many years s-ioce to have heard a 
highly respectable clergyman say, that in the year 1746, he 
resided on the Post-road between Colodden and Aberdeen, 
and that in the rvening of the day on which the battle was 
fought, on which the fate of the T?mpire depended, that he 
had received into his house aa English officer, from the South, 
hastening to join the Duke of Cumberland's army. Durmg 
the night, the Aid-de-catnp carrying the news of victory to 
London, demauded hospitality also, and fully relating the 
extent of the triumph over the forces of the Pretender, the 
Enolishman exclauned " would to Heaven that I had that 
formidable rebel, ijinrdon of GknhucJcet, as my prisoner, I 
would fasten him up m a cage, and carry him as a show 
through England, where his lerrifin name has made such an 
impression, that there is not a cJown throughout the country, 
who does not believe that he eats at least one child every 
mornino: for his breakfast. I should speedily make a most 
ample fortune." I was present when a particular friend of 
my own, sometime after Colonel Barton's successful expedi- 
tion, addressing him with a very serious air, said, " I wish, 
my dear Barton, that I had you caged, that I might show you 
as the hero, who had made a prisoner of the renowned and 
formidable British General Prescott. I would ask no better 
income, than the cash that would be received from the exhibi- 
tion." The Colonel appeared delighted at the thought, and 
I seriously believe, that if a cage had been in preparation, 
he would cheerfully have stepped into it, for the pleasure of 
enjoying the wonder and astonishment that would have been 
displayed, when the gaping spectators discovered that he was 
hut a man . 



T^here was one trait in the American character, which 
erery man of candour must admit, has not been rewarded with 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 157 

the commendation to which it was richly entitled. I allude to 
the spirit of enterprize, which, in so many instances caused 
the bold defenders of their country, to submit to every species 
of privation without murmuring, and to brave all danger at 
the call of duty. If we regard them collectively, I deem it 
impossible that the evils of disease and famine, together with 
the absolute want of decent clothing, could have been sustain- 
ed with more perfect resignation, than that which, under the 
most appalling trials, marked the general conduct of the 
Southern army, under the Generals, Gates and Greene.* 
Nor do I view with less admiration, the steady perseverance 
of that intrepid band of Nortliern Heroes, who surmounted all 
the difficulties of the wilderness, when marching against Que- 
bec. The hardships encountered by the first, are fully detail- 
ed in my first series of Anecdotes. I will briedy notice those 
of the last.f For the distance of three hundred miles, n ot a 

* This exhibition of patient suffering, was what Captain Barry, of the 
British Army, generally distinguished by the name of " Harry Barry Se- 
cretary," was pleased to style passive courage. Loth to allow any species 
of merit to the Americans, he was wont to say, " your soldiers know how 
to sutFer, but they are destitute of that activity and energy that distin- 
guishes Britons, who delight to encounter difficulty and seek danger, and 
who are never so happy as when an opportunity otters oi displaying 
intrppid daring." But where, I wonder, was his energy — where the bold, 
daring of the Briton, when at Eutaw he surrendered his sword to Lieut. 
Manning, presenting the handle of his" dirk in an imposing attitude, and 
threatening to shoot him if he offered resistance. It must, like the cou- 
rage of Acres; in the Play, have oozed out at his fingers' ends, for he 
yielded his weapon without opposition, and was led off the field by a man 
of rather diminutive size, although he reported hhnseli ^' overpoivered aiul 
taken by an immense Viri^^inianJ'^ 

t I am very ready to ackiiowledge, that this is a narrative that has often 
met the public eye ; one wherein I can introduce notliing of novelty, nor 
add any incident strikingly interesting, but it is so admirably caiculated to 
prove, when actuated by the love of freedom, and supported in their ex- 
ertions by devoted attachment to their country, what privations men cau 
patiently submit to — what dangers encounter — what difficulties ovbf- 
come, that I trust I shall meet with pardon, for giving it a place in jny 
present series. 

14 



158 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

house was seen, nor a human countenance to cheer ; not a 
friend to direct them in their course. Incessant labour and 
fatigue destroyed their strength and damped their energies. 
They were either compelled to drag their batteaus up rapid 
rivers, or to transport them on their shoulders over diffirult 
carrying places ; woods almost impenetrable, deep morasses, 
and precipitous mountains perpetually impeded their pro- 
gress. Disease was rapilly thinning their ranks, and famme, 
in its most ghastly form, threatened their entire annihilation. 
Already their dogs, their cartouch-boxes, and shoes, had bt en 
greedily devoured, and when the last pittance of food was dis- 
tributed, a distance of thirty miles was to be traversed, before 
it would be possible to obtain any further supply. The stout- 
est hearts might have been appalled ; the most determined 
courage been subdued. A Colonel Enos, and one-third of the 
detachment shrunk from their duty and returned ; the rest, 
supported by their enthusiastic attachment to their country, 
with unabated fortitude and constancy, persisted till the grati- 
fying appearance of the habitations of men assured them that 
the severest of their trials had ended. Received with kind- 
ness bv the Canadian inhabitants of the frontier settlements, 
the spirit of enterprize regained its pristine vigour, and although 
from the firmness of Carlton, and indefatigable exeriiotis of 
M'Lean, these bold adventurers reaped not the reward of their 
labours, yet, it must be allowed, that they deserved it. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 159 



IMPOSITIONS OF FOREIGNERS EMPLOYED BY 
THE UNITED STATES. 

I am sensible that in the opinion of many European poli- 
ticians, the popular leaders, throughout the American conti- 
nent, contemplated, from the earliest dawn of the Revolutionary 
contest, the dismemberment of the empire, and total separation 
of their country from the dominion of Great Britain. Yet, I 
am far more inclined to believe, that their views did not extend 
beyond the immediate redress of existing grievances, and the 
obtaining from the King and Parliament a satisfactory pledge 
against any further encroachments on their rights and liberties. 
Had the wish to establish the independency of the Colonies 
existed, it cannot be doubted but that greater pains would 
have been taken to secure its accomplishment, and some traits 
of a regular system been discovered, of a combination of influ- 
ential and aspiring men, devoting their time and their talents 
to that object. It proceeds not from the indulgence of national 
vanity that I say, that there was certaiidy no deficiency of 
foresight, or of political intelligence exhibited by those bold 
and adventurous spirits, who first stepped forward as the ad- 
vocates of liberty, or want of zeal in encouraging the resistance 
they had dared to recommend. But the sinews of war were 
wanting. The munitions necessary for defence, in no degree 
proportionate to the quantity required, and although opposition 
to hostility was by general consent determined on, its success- 
ful issue, even to the most sanguine, was considered extremely 
problematical. The deficiency of military stores being con- 
fessed, (and it certainly does not appear an imaginary want) 
the chance of obtaining them was rendered extremely pre- 
carious, and, from the vigilance of the enemy's cruizers, almost 
impracticable. But had they abounded, the want of men, 



160 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

properly trained to arms, and of ojOScers competent to corri- 
mand them, would, necessarily, have paralyzed exertion; and 
to men of less sanguine temperament, obscured with deeper 
shades the gloomy prospect before them. It is presumable, 
also, that with the view to g-et rid of the arbitrary dictates of 
a foreign authority, that individuals aspiring to the attainment of 
honour and renown, would, unceasingly, have endeavoured to 
qualify themselves to meet on equal terms, the experienced 
enemy with whom they had to contend. But this was far 
from being the case ; and it was not till the sword was actually 
drawn, that the studies were commenced, and the information 
sought for, which ought to have been, previously perfected. 
From this source, many disasters which attended the early 
efforts of the American arms is to be attributed. Anxious to 
obtain knowledge in military tactics, and to qualify themselves 
for service, they indulged a credulity that nothing but the 
ardour of their zeal could excuse. They believed every 
foreigner who called himself a soldier, to be one in reality, 
and every pretender to rank, a gentleman. Deception was 
too often practised with success. Individuals were engaged 
as en^neers who were ignorant even of the most simple 
axioms in mathematics ; and Counts and Barons received 
into the best society, and caressed as devoted admirers of the 
cause of liberty, who had never in their own country known 
other service than that of administering to the wants and ca- 
prices of their superiors, or sought employment with any other 
views, than the aggrandizement of their own fortunes and 
consequejice. The genuine frankness and hospitality of Caro- 
linians made them peculiarly the dupes of impostors. All 
who promised largely were considered as competent to the 
performance of their promises, and confidence was invariably 
found the concomitant of profession. The history of the war 
in the interior of our own State, affords ample proof of the 
incapacity of the engineer directing the operations at the siege 
of a fortress of importaiice to perform the duty assigned to 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 161 

him. From his want of judgment, approaches were made at 
the very point where the enemy were least vuhierable, and a 
repulse, attended with the loss of many valuable hves, the im- 
mediate consequence. The sieges of all the other British 
posts, directed by Marion, Sumter and Pickens, and in an 
especial manner, by Lee and Maham, were speedily brought 
to a successful termination. That of Ninety-Six alone 
proved unfortunate. 

Of the impositio!is practised on the credulous, with regard to 
the assumption of rank and title, they too frequently occurred 
to excite surprise. I have, in very many instances, seen men 
familiarly associating with, and seated at the tables of distin- 
guished characters, who, had they occupied their proper sta- 
tions, would have been placed in attendance behind them. I 
will, in evidence, bring forward one instance, well remembered 
by many persons now living. An individual, calling himself 
the Baron de Glaabuck, was greatly caressed, and freely re- 
ceived in many of the most repectable families in Charleston. 
I never could perceive a single trait of excellence about him : 
his great delight was to make a mockery of the religion he 
professed, and to endeavour to amuse those who would listen 
to him with the prowess he had displayed in cutting to 
pieces unfortunate tories who were persuaded, by his pre- 
tending to coincide in opinion with them, to declare their senti- 
ments in favour of the Royal Government. In the field, as 
might well be supposed, he was far more active in pursuit, 
when victorious, than in opposing an enemy who resisted. 
Repeated acts of fraud drove him ultimately from society, 
when it appeared that his origin was as humble as his pre- 
tensions to distinction had been extravagant. 1 was myself 
informed by a Pennsylvania soldier, who had been his early 
friend and comrade, that he had made his first appearance in 
America as a Yager, and had deserted his colours, far more 
from the hope of bettering his fortune, than any attachment to 

14* 



162 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

the cause or to the country, of which he professed himself an 
enthusiastic admirer. 

Tiiat the highest advantages were derived to America, from 
the ardent zeal and dari'ig enterprize of many distniguished 
foreigners, no one can, or would wish to deny. The services 
rendered by General Lafayette, by Baron Steuben, Pulaski, 
De K-db, Tensaiit, Fl« ury, Duportail, Cambrey, Lemoy, 
G«;^ ion, demand our vvarmest applause, and very many 
others while they covered themselves with the palm of renown, 
excited in the bosoms of the people of America a corresponding 
tribute of affection and gratitude, that will, to the end of 
time, cause them to be classed among the most distinguished 
of tlie heroes, whose firmness and intrepidity established in our 
country, the blessings of Liberty and Lidependence. 

There were many others entitled to high encomiums. One 
instance, in which modest merit ventured not to claim the dis- 
tinction which was its due, 1 take a pleasure to record, and am 
not without hope that it will be received with approbation. 

A gentleman, of prepossessing appearance, a subject of 
Russia, genteel in manners and highly gifted in accom- 
plishment, appeared in the cantonments of the army, so- 
liciting, though fruitlessly, a continental commission. The 
evil that I have mentioned above began to be severely felt ; 
and confidence, too often bestowed improperly, gave place to 
a suspicion, that in many instances appeared inconsistejit with 
propriety. The commander-irt-chief complained to Congress 
that he was wearied out by foreigners perpetually demanding 
employment when he had little to bestow, and his mind far 
from being satisfied with the qualifications of the applicants. 
The uniform good conduct and genteel deportment of the 
individual in question gained for him the general esteem of 
the army, and particularly attracted the attention of General 
Irvine, who received him into his family, and appointed him 
his aid-de-catrjp. I'he general opinion was, that he was as 
certainly a man of rank, as he was acknowledged to be of 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 1C3 

liigli endowment and finished educjtion; but on that head 
he preserved the most profound silence. Assuming the name 
of Rose, he would have passed himself off as a physician, but 
it was speedily discovered that he possessed but a very slight 
knowledge of of the medical art, acquired during a short resi- 
dence with Dr. Wisendolf, at Baltimore. His conduct as a 
soldier was exemplary ; he was brave, active and intelligent ; 
and while hostilites continued, the good opinion with which 
he had inspired his companions remained unshaken. At the 
conclusion of the war he returned to his native country, and 
for many years was no more heard of. At length, however, 
a letter came from him to Colonel Callender Irvine, son of the 
General, in which, after expressing the most cordial attach- 
ment to his friend and benefactor, he added — " An affair of 
honour compelled me to abandon my own country. 1 fled 
to America for refuge, was graciously received by your vene- 
rated father, and cherished by him as a son. My obligation 
cannot be told — the powers of language cannot express all 
that I feel. I wish his portrait above all things — send it to 
me, that I may possess the delight of constantly viewing the 
resemblance of my best friend. It will fill up the measure of 
my happiness — I have content and opulence. The mistress 
of my early affection is now my wife, and mine is the honour 
to subscribe myself, the 

" BARON DE ROSENDOLPHE." 



164 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



OVUM REIPUBLICiE— TAe Congress of 11 Qb. 

[communicated by a distinguished patriot.] 

South-Carolina is literally one of the Nine primitive Muses 
of American Liberty. "BEFORE TfiE THIRTEEN 
"WERE, SHE IS.'* We must never forget that the parent 
of the Revolution, the very Ovum HeipuhliccB^ was the Con- 
gress which convened in New- York, in 1765. But nine 
Colonies were represented, as four were overpowed by the 
Royal party. But South-Carolina beat down the strong 
opposition of the Crown, ajsd was the only one. South of the 
Potomac, that sent a delegation. This was the achievement 
of General Gadsden. In this primaeval council, our members 
were far from being insignificant. Three committees only 
were appointed, and of two, the sons of Carolina were chair- 
men. * Mr. Lynch, (father of the patriot who signed the 
Declaration of Independence,) was chairmain of the one to 
prepare an address to the House of Commons ; and John 
Rutledge, (who then was but twenty-six years of age,) of that 
for the House of Lords. This Convention of sages, was the 
parent-plant of our present Confederacy of Repubhcs. Thus 
was South- Carolina among the aboriginal founders of the 
Union. 

Delegates to the Congress q/'1765. 

Massachusetts 3. — James Otis, Oliver Partridge, Timothy 
Ruggles. 

Rhode Island 2.— Metcalf Bowler, Henry Ward. 

Connecticut 3.— Eliphalet Dyer, David Rowland, William 
SaUiUel Johnson. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 165 

Neia-York 5. — Robert R. Livino^ston, John Criiger, Philip 
Livingston, William Bayard, Leonard Lispenard. 

New-Jersey 3. — Robert Ogden, Hendrick Fisher, Joseph 
Borden. 

Pennsyluania 3. — John Dickinson, John Morton, George 
Bryan. 

Delaware 3. — Jacob Rollock, Thomas M'Kean, Csesar 
Rodney. 

Maryland S. — William Murdock, Edward Tilghman, Tho- 
mas Ringgolil. 

South- Carolina 3. — Thomas Lynch, Christopher Gadsden,, 
John Riitledge. 

Nine Colonies, and Twenty-eight Delegates. 

Extracts from the official Journal of the Congress of 1765. 

Met in New- York, on Monday, 7th October, 1765. — After 
having examined and admitted the certificates of appoint- 
ment of the above Members, the said committees proceeded to 
choose a Chairman by ballot ; and Timothy Ruggles, Esq. of 
Massachusetts, on sorting and counting the votes, appeared 
to have a mnjority, and thereupon was placed in the chair. 

Resolved, ncm. con.. That Mr. John Cotton, be Clerk to 
this Congress during the continuance thereof. 

Resolved, That the Committee of each Colony, shall have 
one voice only, in determining any questions that shall arise in 
the Congress. 

After meeting regularly every day, with the exception of the 
Sabbath, they concurred in a declaration of the rights and 
grievances of America, and appointed the following commit- 
tees, on Saturday, 19th October, 1765 : — 

Upon motion voted, that Robert R. Livingston of New- 
York, William Samuel Johnson, and William Murdock, 
Esq'rs. be a committee to prepare an Address to llis Majesty, 
and lay the same before the Congress on Monday next. 



166 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

Voted also, that John Rutledge of South-Carolina, Edward 
Tilo^hmaii, and Philip Livingston, Esq'rs. be a Comrnittee to 
prepare a Memorial and Petition to the Lords in Parliament, 
and lay the same before the Congress on Monday next. 

Voted also, that Thomas Lynch of South-Carolina, James 
Otis, and Thomas M'Kean, Esq'rs. be a Committee to pre- 
pare a Petition to the House of Commons of Great Britain, 
and lay the same before the Congress on Monday next. 

After having attended daily, the last meeting was held on 
Thursday, 24th October, 1765 : — 

Voted unanimously, that the Clerk of this Congress sign 
the minutes of their proceedings, and deliver a copy for the use 
of each Colony and Province, 

Having fulfilled the high duties with which they had been 
entrusted, they adjourned, and prepared for those scenes in 
which many of them acted with such elevation, and which 
have ended in the establishment of the happiest Nation, and 
noblest Repubhc on earth.* 



* An authentic account of this Congress is preserved in the work enti- 
tled " The Frincipks and Acts of the Revolution.^^ 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 167 



MISCELrliANEOUS ANECDOTES. 



JOE BETTYS. 

At a convivial meeting, at which the healths of the captors 
of Andre were drunk, atjd a toast proposed to the memory of 
Fulmer, Cory and Perkins^ who achieved the capture of Jo- 
seph Bettys, a distiugiushed traitor and spy, the venerahle 
Colonel Ball, who presided, made the statement which fol- 
lows : — 

" Durlns^ the war of the Revohition, I was an officer in the 
New-York line, in the Regiment commanded by Colonel 
Wynkoop. Being r.cquainted with B>4tys, who was a citizen 
of Builston, and knowing hnn to be bold, athletic and intelli- 
gent in an uncommon degree, I was d. sirousof obtaining his 
services for my coiu.iry, and succeeded in enlistins^ him as a 
Sergeant : he was afterwards reduced to the ranks, on ac- 
count of some insolence to an officer, who he said had abused 
him without a cause. Knowing his irritable and determined 
spirit, and unwilling to lose bin;, I pro!j;ured him the ^ank of 
Sergeant, in the fleet commanded by (.eneral Ansold, (after- 
wards the distinguished traitor,) on Lake Champlain, in 
'76. Bettys was m that desperate fight, which took place in 
the latter part of the campaign, between the British and Ame- 
rican fleets, on that lake, and being a skilful seaman, was of 
signal service during the battle. He fought until every com- 
missioned officer on board his vessel was killed or woundvd, 
and then assumed command himself, id 'ojitinued the light 
with such reckless courage, that General Walerbury, who wa« 



168 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

second in command under Arnold, perceiving the vessel was 
likely to sink, was obliged to order Bettys and the remnant of 
his crew on board his own vessel, and having noticed his ex- 
traordinary bravery and conduct, he stationed him on the 
quarter-deck by his side, and gave orders through him, until 
the vessel, becoming altogether crippled, the crew mostly 
killed, himself wounded, and only two officers left, the colours 
were struck to the enemy. General Waterbury afterwards 
told my father, that he never saw a man behave with such 
deliberate desperation as Bettys, and that the shrewdness of 
his management, showed that his conduct was not inferior to 
his courage. After the action, Bettys went to Canada — turn- 
ed traitor to his country — received an Ensign's commission in 
the British army — became a spy — and proved himself a most 
dangerous and subtle enemy. He was at length arrested, 
tried, and condemned to be hung at West Point. But the 
entreaties of his aged parents, and the solicitations of influen- 
tial whigs, induced General Washington to pardon him on 
promise of amendment. But it was in vain. The generosity 
of the act only added rancour to his hatred, and the whigs of 
the section of the country, especially of Ballston, had deep 
occasion to remember the traitor, and to regret the unfortu- 
nate lenity they had caused to be shown him. He recruited 
soldiers for the King, in the very heart of the country. He 
captured and carried offthe most zealous and efficient patriots, 
and subjected them to the greatest suflering, and those against 
whom he bore particular malice lost their dwellings by fire 
or lives by murder, and all this, while the British Commander 
kept him in employ, as a faithful and most successful messen- 
ger, and a cunning and intelligent spy. No fatigue wearied 
his resolution — no distance was an obstacle to his purpose, 
and no danger appalled his courage. No one felt secure. 
Sometimes in the darkness of the night he came by stealth 
upon us, and sometimes, even in the middle of the day, he 
was prowling about, as if unconscious of any danger. He 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 169 

boldly proclaimed himself a desperado, that he carried his 
life in his hand — that he was as careless of it as he should be of 
that of others, should they undertake to catch him ; that his 
liberty was guarded by his life, and whoever should undertake 
to deprive him of it, must expect to mingle their blood with 
his. And it was well understood, that what Bettys said, Bet- 
tys meant, and, as well ascertained, that when he came among 
us, to perpetrate his mischief, that he generally brought with 
him a band of refugees, and concealed them in the neighbour- 
hood, to assist him in the accomplishment of his purposes. 
Still, there were many who resolved on his apprehension, be 
the danger what it might ; and many unefFectual attempts 
were made for that purpose. But he eluded all their vigilance 
till sometime in the winter of '81-'82, when a suspicious 
stranger, was observed in the neighbourhood in snow shoes, 
and well armed. Cory and Perkins, on information from 
Fulmcr, immediately armed themselves, and together with 
Fulmer, proceeded in pursuit. They traced him by a circuit- 
ous track, to the house of a tory ; they consulted a moment, 
and then, by a sudden eflbrt, bursting open the door, rushed 
upon him, and seized him, before he had an opportunity of 
effecting any resistance. lie was at his meal, with his pistols 
lying on the table, and his rifle resting on his arm ; he made 
an attempt to discharge the latter, but not having taken the 
precaution to undo the deer-skin cover that was over the lock, 
did not succeed. lie was then pinioned so firmly, that to 
resist was useless, and to escape impossible. And the noto- 
rious Bettys, cheated of ail his threats, and foiled in his most 
particular resolution, was obliged to yield himself a tame and 
quiet prisoner to the enterprize and daring of Fulmer, Cory, 
and Perkins. He asked leave to smoke, which being granted 
he took out his tobacco, and with it something else, which, 
when unobserved as he hoped, he threw into the lire, but 
Cory saw it and immediately snatched it out with a liandful 
of coals. It was a small leaden box, about the eighth of an 

15 



170 liEVOLL'TIOxXARY ANECDOTES. 

inch in thickness, and contained a paper in cypher, which 
ihry could not read, but it was afterwards discovered to be a 
despUcli to the British Commander at New- York, and also an 
order for tliirty pounds sterhng on the Mayor of New- York, 
should the despatch be safely deUvered. Bettys begged leave 
to burn it, but was refused ; he offered them an hundred gui- 
neas, if he might be allowed to do it, but they steadily refused. 
He tiien said, " I am a dead man," but continued to intercede 
with them to allow him to escape. He made the most liberal 
offers, a part of which he had present means to make good, 
but they still refused to listen to him. He was then taken to 
Albany, tried, convicted, and executed as a spy and traitor to 
his country. And, the only reward these daring men ever re- 
ceived for their hazardous achievement, was the rifle and pis- 
tols of Bettys. The conduct of the captors of Andre was 
noble, but that of the captors of Bettys was both noble and 
heroic. Andre was a gentleman, and without the means of 
defence. Bettys was fully armed, and known to be a despe- 
rado. The capture of the former was by accident — of the 
latter, by entcrprize and design. That of the former was 
without danger ; of the latter, at the imminent peril of life. 
Andre was a more important, but perhaps not a more danger- 
ous man than Bettys. Both tempted their captors with all- 
seducing gold, and both were foiled. And, Paulding Wil- 
liams, and Van Wart, though venerated in the highest degree 
by me, as having exhibited a trait of character, honourable to 
the reputation of their country, have not, in my estimation, 
claims to celebrity superior to those of Fulmcr, Cory, and Per- 
kins." The President having concluded, the toast was drunk, 
amidst the most thundering applause. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 171 



GENERAL STUART, FORMERLY OF WASHING- 
TON'S HORSE. 

General Smith, of Washington City, who visited Cliarles- 
ton in 1826, communicated the anecdote which follows to one 
of my most esteemed friends. I take great pleasure in re- 
cording it, because it not only does honour to the distinguished 
officer of whom he spoke, but affords a new and interesting 
proof of the enthusiastic feelings and attachment of the whig 
ladies of America to their country. 

" General Stuart, of Maryland, who served at Eutaw, as a 
Lieutenant, under Colonel Wm. Washington, and who in the 
action was severely wounded, being recently called upon to 
read the Declaration of Independence, before a numerous 
assemblage of citizens, celebrating the birth-day of our liberty, 
appeared in full military costume, fashioned according to the 
times in which he served. A friend familiarly commenting on 
the singularity of his appearance, and the improved style of 
modern military dress, drew from him the following observa- 
tions : — " Our Regimentals, in former days, were fashioned 
according to the existences of the times, and were made more 
for use than show. I admire the ancient garb exceedingly, 
and but for the death of my venerated mother, should this day 
I have appeared before the public, clad in the very waistcoat I 
ihadon, when shot through the body at Eutaw. The good 
I lady regarded it as a trophy, and earnestly requested, that at 
i her death, I would allowed her the privilege of carrying it with 
I her to the toinb. I was sensible how much the affectionate 
I feelinjj: of parental love glowed in her bosom, and of the pride 
she felt that I had bled in my country's service. To have 
I denied her request, would have evinced an insensibility, which 
I could never experience. Consent, on my part, was instanta- 
neous and decided, and she actually wore the waistcoat in 
question beneath the shroud in which she was interred." 



172 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES- 



A brief Statement of the sanguinary mode in which the War 
was carried on between Whig and Tory while the British 
held jpossession of the Carolinas. 

To give a just idea of the horrors which prevailed in the 
iutcrior country, from the violence of party spirit, would be 
altogether beyond my ability. Dr. Ramsay says,* " The 
destructions and depredations committed by them, were so 
enormous, that should the whole be particularly related, they 
who live at a distance would scarcely believe what could be 
attested by hundreds of eye-witnesses." It may truly be said 
to have been a war of extermination. There was, however, 
one characteristic difference which does honour to the whigs. 
Unless in cases, where outrageous murders had been committed, 
or destruction of property wantonly indulged in, they were 
contented, when the power to injure was in their hands, to 
to send the criminal aggressors within the limits of the British 
garrisons. But insatiable vengeance uniformly directed the 
operations of the tories, and their triumphs were invariably 
sealed with blood. Look to the appalling career of Fanning, 
AVill Cunningham, and other British partizans, and contrast it 
with the mild and benevolent conduct of Marion, and of Pick- 
ens, and the truth and jut^iice of my statement must be ac- 
knowlt'dged, without con radiction. Yevy many instances in 
point might be introduced in this place. I have already 
noticed many in my first series of Anecdotes. t I shall confine 
myself on the pres^ent occasion, in rehitmg only a f(;sv, for the 
correctness of which many living witnesses can still bear tes- 
timony. The toils and dangers of war had not steeled men's 
hearts, against the influence of nnlder feeling?:, and the passion 
•f love, maintained its ascendancy with its accustomed and 

- Vol. ii. p. 84. .t Page 259. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 173 

I'esistless power. The brave are ever the favourites of the fair, 
and distinction in the field of honour, was found by the patriot 
soldier, the most certain passport to the affections of his 
mistress. Captain Tateman, a youih of gallantry, had sue* 
cessfully addressed a very amiable lady, and a day was ap- 
pointed for the celebration of the luiptials. Repairing with 
his friend, Lieut. Geger, to the habitation of his mistress, he 
found the minister, the Rev. Mr. Theus, and company invited, 
already assembled to witness the ceremony, and believed his 
bliss secure. But the completion of his happiness was denied 
him. The news of the intended union had spread abroad, 
and the neighbourinof tories having assembled in force, re- 
solved by a decided manifestation of resentment, to mar the 
felicity of the parties forever. The house was speedily sur- 
rounded, and the bridegroom demanded for sacrifice. His 
presence was denied by the family; but no attention being 
paid to their assertions, sentinels prepared to destroy whoso- 
ever should come forth, were placed around, and the house 
«et on fire in every quarter. Captain Tateman and his friend, 
who were concealed within, were warned of the fate which 
awaited them, by a sister of the bride, who had rushed 
through the flames, on pretence of saving some highly valued 
property. There was no time for deliberation, and the flames 
which were rapidly approaching!:, rendering delay impossible, 
they rushed forth, and running in opposite directions, passed 
the guard, and receiving their fire with little inj iry, found 
security in the adjoining woods. The Clergyman was dread- 
i fully mangled, but on account of his advanced age, not imme- 
I diately put to death ; the remaining assemblage of male visi« 
I tors, led to a distance from the ruins, and dehberately massa- 
I cred. The torch of Hymen nevertheless, was not extinguish- 
I ed, and on the following day the nuptial benediction was pro- 
iliounced on the enamoured pair, at a neighbouring farm. 
3uch an act could not be suffered to pass with impunity. Ven- 
geance was vowed against the barbarians, who had so wauton^ 

15* 



174 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

ly outraged humanity, and amply taken. The tory party 
were from that day hunted down Uke wild beasts, and in a 
few months, not an individual among them remained in exist- 
tence. 



The unceasing severity exercised over the inhabitants geile- 
rally, and in very many instances by officers of high rank and 
influence, gave birth to resentments so strong — to prejudices 
»o deeply rooted and unconquerable, that every serious evil 
was considered as originating with them ; every misfortune^ 
however trivial, dated from the period of their arrival in the 
country. I remember, sometime after the conclusion of the 
war, on a gentleman's complaining on a sultry summer's day, 
that the wine before him was unpalatable, from its excessive 
heat. A lady present, influenced by this universal habit of 
complaining, replied — " Every thing. Sir, has altered for the 
worse since the British came among us. We always drank 
cool wine till then. Since their appearance, we have never 
enjoyed that luxury." " I was considered," said another, 
" a skilful songstress, but the oppression which was meant to 
break men's spirits effectually broke my voice, and I have 
never since been able to turn a tune, or raise a note." 

Themistocles being taxed with partiality in a cause brought 
before him, frankly declared, " that he never wished to pre- 
side in a Court, where he could not make a distinction between 
his friends and his enemies.'* After the severe conflict be- 
tween whig and tory, in our interior country, to gain superiori- 
ty, it is not to be wondered at that the strongest antipathies 
marked their conduct towards each other. An old Revolu- 
tionary Colonel, with whom I was well acquainted, presiding 
at a country Court, had a dispute referred to him, which had 
occurred between two whigs. " I was never so puzzled be- 
fore," he exclaimed, " to form an opinioa on the Justice of 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 175 

the case. Both parties are staunch wliigs^ and honest men. 
Had the contest been between a lohig and a tor?/, 1 could not 
have hesitated to decide ; I should have concluded at once, 
that the former could not have been in the wrong." 

On another occasion, the presiding Judge directing the .Tury 
to give damages to a plaintiff, whose adversary had closely 
attached himself to the British invaders — the Foreman ad- 
dressing himself to his companions, said, " Gentlemen, a fair 
opportunity is offered us, of revenging the injuries heaped 
upon our country by a band of traitors Let us make this 
fellow pay for the rest." Similar prejudices were as strongly 
felt in other parts of the Union, and, in all probability, de- 
riving their origin from a similar source. A religious Elder 
from Jersey, making a voyage to Nova Scota, became so com- 
pletely dissatisfied with the soil and climate, as frequently to 
express his wonder, " for what use that country could have 
been created ?" His pious principles, however, leading to the 
belief, that nothing was created in vain, led him to the con- 
elusion, "that Nova Scotia was created, and specially designed 
by an overruling Providence, for the habitation of those pests 
®f society, the tories and refugees of America, where, on 
ground, rocky as their hearts, they were destined to continue 
to the end of their lives, unacquainted with, and forever se- 
cluded from the privileges enjoyed by the sons and daughters 
•f freedom." I have introduced these last anecdotes, merely 
to shew the mistaken policy of the British commanders in the 
moment of success, and the inveteracy of resentment that 
never could have existed, had victory been tempered with 
moderatioxi and forbearance. 



f Nor were the prejudices entertained by the Royalists, less 
jSxed and inveterate. There was a family remaining in the 
city, after its evacuation} which had once been kind and attentive 



176 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

to me, and to whom I ardently wisljed to be serviceable oik 
every occasion. I had been succesfefully so more than 
once. Foro^ettinis^ that tlie authority of the British had 
lost its influence within the limits of the State, an attempt was 
mnde, by sfettinsr possession of letters from individuals in 
Europe, to their friends in Carohna, to raise a tax on the in- 
habitants, which not beirtg in the first instance resisted, became 
intolerablf. Notice was given to a pMrticniar friend of mine, 
that a Indy in the city had possession of several letters ad- 
dressed to him from Enoland, which, upon paying a certain 
postage, should be immediately delivered to him. The sum 
demanded was too enormous not to be resisted, and my friend 
promptly refused to pay it, informing the lady that he should 
immediately set ois foot an inquiry, to ascertain by what au- 
thority she demanded a postage for British letters in a city, 
from which that nation had but recently been expelled. " Send 
me my letters instantaneously," he continued, "or my lawyer 
shall more particularly inquire by what authority they are 
withheld." The letters were sent, and, after much intreaty 
on my part, my friend, who was well apprized of the hatred 
chi rished by the lady against America, consented to let the 
imposition pass off without further notice. Gaiety was, at 
this period, the order of the day ; there were no stiff cere- 
moisious parties, but an universal disposition prevailed to be 
happy, and to dispense happiness all around. It happened 
thnt Mrs. Greene gave at the time a large and very elegant 
ball ; accident carried me the next morning to the house of a 
not!-admirer of the ball, to pay, as usual, a complimentary 
visit to the lady in question. I had scarcely taken 
my seat, when she said, "I understand from my people that 
a grand ball was given yesterday evening by Mrs. G. at 
head-quarters." " It was, indeed, a very splendid one," I 
replied ; " exciting the admiration of every individual present." 
" Whs there so much to admire," she calmly continued. 
" Doubtless," I replied, " as far as beauty could chaim, and 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 177 

elegance of dress give increase to attraction, it would have 
been impossible not to have been pleased." " Your elegance 
in dress, I presume," rejoined the critic, " corresponded ad- 
mirably wdth your taste in decoration." " It was, indeed, 
much the case," I replied — " the leaves of the Mangolia, hung 
up in festoons and decorated with paper shades resembling the 
flowers, were so admirably imitated by Colonel Kosciusko, that 
many ladies forgettmg that it was a season of the year when 
few or no flowers were linown to bloom, declared themselves 
greatly refreshed by the softness and delicacy of their perfume." 
*' But how did it happen," said the lady, " that taste was so 
much at variance with truth, and compliments paid, so con- 
trary to every principle of propriety. God knows no head in 
that room was ever entitled to a wreath of laurel." 1 could 
only reply — " On this subject there necessarily exists diversity 
of opinion." It was for those whose views were disappointed 
by the termination of the contest, to cavil and complain ; for 
those who had labouied for its accomplishment, to appreciate 
with gratitude, the blessings which it had bestowed on their coun- 
try. It is not, therefore, to be wondered at, that their adherents 
should adopt prejudices equally strong, and think no terms too 
harsh, when applied to the supporters of the American cause. 
The term rebel, was familiar to the lips even of the most de- 
graded beings in society. I well remember, that iinjuiring 
some time after the signing of the preliminary articles of peace, 
of a negro carpenter on my plantation, if a hinge could be 
fou?id for a small gate I was about to erect, he replied, *' I do 
not think, Massa, that a single British hinge can be found in 
our store-room, but I can make a rebel hinge in half an hour." 



FRANCIS M'DONNEL. 

Sometime subsequent to the publication of my first series of 
Anecdotes, in which I attributed to Lieut. CqIoucI Fleury, tbo; 



178 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

honour of having struck the British flag, at Stoney Point, 
with his own hands.* I received from my friend Major Gib- 
bon of Richmond, the following particulars relating to that 
transaction. " Francis M'Donnel, a son of Erin, emigrated 
to America previously to the Revolution, accompanying his 
father and entire family. When the American army was 
raised in 1775, Frank and two of his brothers, enlisted in the 
Pennsylvania line, as common soldiers. At the massacre of 
the Paoli, both of his brothers were bayonetted, which induced 
him to vow vengeance, and he accordingly continued with the 
army to the close of the war, distinguished as a faithful and 
useful soldier. Frank was one of the survivors of Major Gib- 
bon's Forlorn Hope, at the storming of Stoney Point, and 
was the person who hauled down the British flag. This gal- 
lant act achieved, he was in search of his commanding officer 
to present his trophy, when he was met by Major Fleury, who 
took the flag into his own possession, but to Frank, who had 
been previously wounded in the breast, the honour of lowering 
it decidedly belonged. In reward for his services, Frank re- 
ceived a pension from the State of Pennsylvania, and subse- 
quently, was pensioned also by the United States. He lived 
to a good old age, for many years in the service of Callender 
Irvine, Esq. Commissary General, the son of his worthy 
Colonel in the Revolution, General Wm. Irvine, but was un- 
fortunately drowned in the Schuylkill, in the year 1820, near 
Philadelphia. 



THE MISCHEANZA. 

The dissipations of the Dritish army, during the period that 
they held possession of Phiiadel]>hia, have been depicted m 

"* Vide, page 211; 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 179 

such strong language, as to stagger belief. If the representa- 
tion is allowed to be correct, it can scarcely be imagined, that 
the Carthagenians at Capua, were more enervated by their sen- 
sualities, and unrestrained indulgence of their luxurious appe- 
tites than they were. The celebration of the Mischeanza, ap- 
peared the climax of their folly and extravagance. It consisted 
of a variety of entertainments, got upas a parting compliment 
to the Commander-in-chief, General Sir Wm. Howe, whose 
want of success, had obscured the splendor of his early 
achievements, and who was now to be succeeded by a soldier 
of inferior ability, but exalted far above him, by the purity of 
his unblemished character. General Howe, by the influence of 
example, had broken down all the barriers of restraint ; he 
countenanced every irregularity — neglected the discipline 
essential to the perfection of service, and rendered vice an 
object of emulation, as it appeared on all occasions the Jirst 
and surest step to favour and promotion. General Clinton, 
was decidedly a better man, and probably, just as well calcu- 
lated to carry on the Quixotic scheme of subjugating America, 
as any officer that could have been selected. I do not wish to 
enter into details. The pompous accounts that were given at 
the time, of the superior splendor of the various fetes — the gal- 
lant bearing of the Knights, displaying their prowess at the 
tournament ; the beauty of the Princesses, lavishly bestowing 
their smiles of encouragement on their favourites ; the brdlian- 
cy of the balls — the fascinations of the enUvening bands of 
music — the magnificence of dress, luxurious feeding, deep 
play, and hard drinking, were well calculated to excite wonder; 
but in the eye of reason, cannot be viewed with too great 
severity. I was told by a lady, of the highest respectability at 
that period just entering into life, that she had herself ex- 
pressed a strong desire to see the preparattons that were 
making for the fete, and had solicited her mother's permission 
to indulge her curiosity, but that the sage matron gave a 
prompt and decided refusal, and turning to an old Scotch offi- 



180 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

cer of artillery, who was quartered in her house, said " would 
you be surprised, Captain, if General Washington was to 
disturb the festivities of the day, and while mirth and revelry 
prevailed at one end of the city, that he should attack it in a 
vulnerable part in an opposite quarter V^ " Madam," replied 
the veteran, (who held the idle pageant in profound contempt, 
and had refused to witness its celebration,) *' if Mr. Washing- 
ton, possess the wisdom, and sound policy, which I have 
ever attributed to him, he will not, at such a time, meddle with 
us. The excesses of the present hour, are to him equivalent 
to a victory, and by us will be felt as a sore affliction to the 
end of the contest." 

Something of the same kind was attempted in Carolina, but 
it failed in success. The entertainment was called the Crude' 
nade, and intended as a fete to celebrate the decisive victory 
said to have been gained by Lord Cornwallis at Guildford. 
It was attended by the officer's wives of the garrison, and 
some few of the sex, their devoted friends ; but the ladies of 
Carolina kept far distant from it, with the exception of one 
good whig, who, at the expense of feeling, was resolved to 
indulge curiosity. And she paid dearly for it. A toast being 
given by a young lady from Rhode Island, of such sanguinary 
import, that I have heard her declare that her blood appeared 
to curdle in her veins, and it was with difficulty she could fly 
a scene where she was altogether out of her element, and 
where she ought never to have exposed herself to such gross 
and malignant insult. 



MAJOR M'DONOUGH. 

The narrative which follows, relates to the father of Com- 
modore M'Donough, the naval hero, so much distinguished by 
bis valour and the victory gained on Lake Champlain over 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 181 

the British fleet, and I consider it altogether probable, that 
owing to his resolution, to rehnquish his ardent desire for mili- 
tary fame, and to devote his entire attention to the education 
of his children, we owe the exemplary good conduct and 
triumph of the son. A day or two before the battle of Long 
Island, a Council of War, was summoned to meet in the city 
of New- York, which occasioned the command of the Dela- 
ware Regiment to devolve on Major M'Donough, the Colonel 
and Lieut. Col. being both members under orders to attend the 
Council. The Regiment was greatly distinguished in the action, 
and its Commander rewarded by the flattering approbation of 
General Washington. During the remainder of the cam- 
paign, it gained increase of reputation, but sustained some 
losses, and its Colonel being killed at Princeton, and the time 
of its service expired, it was disbanded. The zeal of Dela- 
ware was, however, unabated, and it appearing evident, that a 
new corps could, without difficulty, be organized. Governor 
MMvinly assembled his Council at Wilmington, to appoint the 
officers, who were to hold the commissions. Major M'Do- 
nough, both from rank and high military reputation, was with- 
out hesitation named as Colonel. Information was immedi- 
ately given that the honour was declined, and that his resolu- 
tion to retire from service was not to be overcome. A gentle- 
man of high rank was then appointed to command, but he, 
] unwilling from a want of experience to occupy a post of such 
high responsibility, modestly said, " allow me to use my influ- 
ence to induce Major M'Donough to take the command which 
has been oft'ered to him, and I will willingly serve under his 
orders as his Lieutenant Colonel. His proposition was ac- 
ceded to, and he immediately went forward, earnestly hoping 
that his mission would prove successful. Arriving in the 
evening at the Major's house, the purpose of his visit was 
made known. Overpowered by his feelings and due sense of 
the honour conferred upon him, he could make no reply ; but 
having, after a time, recovered his composure, he said, " do 

16 



182 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

me the honour of breakfasting with me to-morrow morning', 
and I will give you my answer." The visitor was punctual in 
his attendance, and was presented to Mrs. M'Donough, who 
set at her breakfast table, her children, all small and neatly 
dressed, being arranged on each side of her. She was an 
engaging and accomplished woman, who inspired with respect 
all who approached her; the Major, a handsome man, of 
very gentlemanly deportment. Breakfast being ended, and 
the lady and children retired, the Major addressed his visitor 
to this effect, " I am deeply indebted to the Governor and 
Council, and to you, Sir, for the honour of this visit, and the 
application which is the object of it, but circumstances forbid 
me to indulge my own inclination. The small farm which I 
inhabit is my only possession, and I am compelled, having 
some knowledge of physic, to make it a profession, the better 
to support my wife and the children, who have now left us. 
My heart is my country's, and I am not without ambition to 
acquire military fame ; but, if I was to fall, what would be- 
come of them 1" These few words, contained an appeal that 
was unanswerable. The Major remained at home. 



Interesting Communication ^ relative to the family of 

GENERAL LA FAYETTE. 

During his late visit to America, he was approaching the 
town of Petersburg}!, accompanied by Judge Peter Johnston, 
and B. W. Leigh, Esq. Addressing himself to these gentle- 
men, he said, " General Greene had made repeated applica- 
tions to me, for certain supplies, which (the means being in 
my power) I was anxious to forward to him But the fre- 
quent detachments sent out by the enemy, for the purpose of 
\couring the country, made the attempt extremely hazardous. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES* 183 

The British General Phihps, was in possession of the town of 
Petersburgh, and had his head quarters in a situation very 
conspicuous from the opposite side of the river Appomattox, 
near which lay the army under ray command. To gain my 
end, I resolved to make a movement, indicating an intention to 
attack his post, which compelled the General to call in all de- 
tachments, and out posts, the more effectually to resist me. I 
accordingly approached the river, and erected a battery, which 
1 ordered to play incessantly on the house occupied by the 
British Commander. At the very period that my orders were 
executed, General Philips, who had been long sick, expired. 
I mention this as a remarkable circumstance, since, at a sub- 
sequent period, referring to historical documents, it appears 
that on the day on which the celebrated battle of Minden was 
fought, my father fell by a cannon shot, fired from a battery 
commanded by the very General Philips, who now expired, 
while opposing the son of the man, who had been destroyed 
by him." 

The battle of Minden was fought on the first of August, 
1759. In the French account of the action, which ^W11 be 
found in the London Magazine for September of that year, it 
is stated, " that Prince de Chemai, and M. de La Fayette, 
Colonels in the Grenadiers of France, were killed. The fol- 
lowing extract is taken from the orders of Prince Ferdinand of 
Brunswick, issued on the 2d of August, 1759 : " His High- 
ness is extremely obliged to the Count de Buckenbourg, for 
all the care and trouble he took in the management of the 
artillery, which was served with great effect ; likewise to the 
Commanding officers of the several Brigades of Artillery, viz : 
Colonel Brown, Colonel Huske, Major Haser, and the Eng- 
lish Captains, Philips, Drummond and Foy." The order at 
large may be found in the London Magazine for August, 1759, 
as well as an article in these words : " Head Quarters at 
Bielfielde, August 7th, 1759. His serene Highness, Duke 
Ferdinand, sent orders to Mr. Hedeman, his Treasurer, to pay 



184 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

the following officers of the British army, the undermentioned 
gratuities, as a testimony of liis great satisfaction at their gal- 
lant behaviour in the late action, on the 1st of this month. 
To Captain Philips, one thousand crowns ; to Captain M'- 
Bean, Captain Drummond, Captain Williams, and Captain 
Foy, five thousand crowns each. I hope the said gentlemen, 
will accept this present from Iiis Royal Highness, as a 
mark of his particular esteem for them." 



GENERAL LA FAYETTE. 

It gives me great pleasure to mention an act of disinterest- 
edness which does him the highest honour. General Cotes- 
worth Pinckney informed me, that when General La Fayette 
arrived, and paid his lii*st visit to Congress, he presented a 
certificate, by which it appeared, that our Agents in France 
had stipulated that he should, on joining the army, he appoint' 
ed Major General^ and have a separate command. This was 
decidedly objected to, and he was told that the Agents with 
whom he had treated had far exceeded their powers. That 
General Washington, in whom they placed implicit confidence, 
had been appointed Commander-in-chief, and that to appoint 
him to a command free from the control and authority of his 
superior was altogether impossible. " No man," said La 
Fayette, *' can more approve your decision than I do. I ask 
no commission, — I solicit no command, till I have proved my 
devotion to the cause of America, and can come forward 
sanctioned by the recommendation of the Commander-in- 
chief." The battle of Brandywine speedily following, he 
obtained, by his good conduct, tlie applause of General Wash- 
ington, and by his solicitation to Congress, the accomplish- 
ment of his wishes. 



\ 
REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 185 



La Fayette and an old Soldier, at Montgomery, 

When on his last visit to America, while at Montgomery, in 
the State of Alabama, he was visited by a veteran who had 
served under him in many battles, whom he immediately re- 
cognized, as an orderly and most gallant soldier. After much 
interesting and familiar conversation, the old man said, 
** there is one thing, General, which it puzzles me to account 
for — when we served together, I believed myself to be the 
youngest man of the two. But my locks are now perfectly 
grey, and you do not appear to have a grey hair in your head." 
" My good friend," replied the General, *' you are altogether 
in error, the advantage is totally on your side. The hair of 
your head is grey — while I cannot beast a single hair on my 
head — I wear a wig !" 



RED JACKET. 

It happened during the Revolutionary war, that a treaty 
was held with the Indians, at which La Fayette was present. 
The object was to unite the various tribes in amity with Ame- 
rica. The majority of the Chiefs were friendly, but there 
was much opposition made to it, more especially by a young 
warrior, who declared that when an alliance was entered into 
with America, he should consider the sunof his country as set 
forever. In his travels through the Indian Country, when 
lately in America, it happened at a large assemblage of Chiefs, 
that La Fayette referred to the treaty in question, and turning 
to Red Jacket, said, *' pray tell me if you can, what has be- 
come of that daring youth, who so decidedly opposed all our 
propositions for peace and amity 1 Does he still live— and 

16* 



186 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

what is his condition ?" " I, myself, am the man," replied 
Red Jacket, " the decided enemy of the Americans, as long as 
the liope of opposing them with success remained, but now 
their true and faithful ally until death." 



Opinion of General O'Hara, of the British Arm^, icith re- 
spect to the Soldiers of America. 

A gentleman of respect abiUty, now residing in Charleston^ 
told me, that conversing with General O'Hara, sometime after 
the battle of Guildford, relative to the comparative merits of 
the contending armies. He frankly said, " as often as 1 have 
been engaged in battle, I was never before so roughly treated. 
Thrice during the engagement, I was compelled to yield, and 
and as oftentimes was liberated by the gallant fellows I com- 
manded. No battle was ever more obstinately contested. 
Both armies were entitled to exalted praise." I did not men- 
tion the circumstance in my first series of Anecdotes, but I 
perfectly remember that the gallant Linton, of Washingtons, 
told me, that in the action he had enjoyed the happiness of 
receiving General O'Hara's sword, who for some time re- 
mained his prisojier, though ultimately rescued by a superior 
force, which had rallied to save him* 



Gen. Conway, a distinguished French officer, said to Dr. 
Rush, that he could drill an American in three weeks, and 
tha<^ the people of no other nation were so quickly transformed 
into Soldiers as those of the United States. 

It was the decided opinion of General Charles Lee, that 
the peasantry of America atforded the best possible material 
for the composition of a perfect army. 



REVOLUTIOP^ARY ANECDOTES. 187 

And the British officers generally, not too anxious to deny 
a portion of merit to those by whom they were so often beaten, 
allowed, that though inferior in enterprize and active courage, 
the Americans possessed in a pre-eminent degree, what they 
styled passive courage. A firmness to submit to the frowns of 
fortune, and by patience to evercome them. 



COLONEL ISAAC HAYNE. 

Not satisfied with the notice I had taken in my first series of 
Anecdotes, of the death of Colonel Isaac Hayne, I had deter- 
mined to enter more fully on the subject, in my present lucu- 
brations, but the history of his captivity and death, has been so 
ably, faithfully, and satisfactorily detailed, ui the first number 
of the Southern Review^ by a writer completely master of the 
subject, that there is little wanting to give perfection to his 
narrative. I would only briefly state one circumstance, as it is 
a proof in point, that I have not erred in fixing the odium of 
this disgraceful severity on Lord Rawdon. " To render more 
effectual the prayers and petitions, urg^ed in behalf of the un- 
fortunate prisoner by his friends and relatives, the venerable 
Lieut. Governor Bull, whose character, loyalty and station, 
entitled him to the highest consideration, though labouring 
under a severe and agonizing disease, caused himself to be 
conveyed to Head Quarters, hoping to mitigate the sentence 
pronounced against Hayne. On his return to his home, the 
' dejection of his countenance at once proclaimed the ill-success 
of his interference ; it was scarcely necessary for him to reply 
to a friend anxious to know the result of his visit. " The 
unfortunate prisoner must die — I have used my best endea- 
vours to save him, but Lord Rawdon is inexorable."* 

* Vide First Series, page 250. 






188 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



DUELLING. 

I have been accused by the North- American Review, of 
beinj]^ a favourer of the pernicious practice of Duelling. I will 
state with candour the grounds on which this calumny rests. 
General Moultrie, after expressing great indignation at the 
proposal of his friend, Lord Charles G. Montague, that he 
should quit the American, and enter into the British service, 
says, " My Lord — I would make one proposal, but my situ- 
ation as a prisoner, circumscribes me within certain bounds. 
And in a note, adds, " which was to advise him to come over 
to the Americans. This proposal I could not make when on 
parole." — Moultrie'' s Revolution, 

The publication of this note has greatly mortified me. I had 
always believed, that nothing but the restriction imposed by 
his parole, had prevented General Moultrie from making an 
appeal to the sword to convince Lord Montague how keenly 
he felt the insult of his degrading offer.* 

Upon this point, many of the friends in whose opinions I 
place the most implicit confidence, differ from me. They in- 
sist that from the previous intimacy existing between the 
parties, that Lord Montague could not have harboured a 
wish to insult the friend whom he loved, and that his sole aim 
to recommend the adoption of a hne of conduct, which, without 
injury to his reputation, would infallibly prove beneficial to his 
fortunes. Yet Moultrie felt the offer of his correspondent 
derogatory to his honour, and rejected it with disdain. " You 
tell me, my Lord, that I may quit the service with honour and 
reputation to myself, by going with you to Jamaica. Good 
God, is it possible that such an idea should arise in the breast 
of a man of honour," &c. He felt as a soldier, and strongly 

* Vide First Series Anecdotes, p. 16. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 189 

expressed bis indignation. How then could he, with a shadow 
of propriety, recommend to another a measure which he con- 
sidered inconsistent with the dignity of his character, the honour 
of mihtary profession, which at all risks should be preserved 
immaculate. I candidly own that I should have been better 
\ satisfied, had he said, "As a prisoner I submit to the insult, 
but were I freed from the restrictions of my parole, I should 
immediately call you to an account for thinking so ill of me as 
to imagine me capable of forsaking the standard I have sworn 
through every peril to defend. Feeling myself, at every instant, 
the insults and oppression of arbitrary power, witnessing the 
severities exercised against my friends and companions in arms, 
compelled to listen to the tales of sorrow of the widow and the 
fatherless, humbled to the dust and trampled upon, how is it 
possible for me to feel any other sentiment towards the men 
with whom your are associated, than that of determined and 
laudable animosity. The enemies of my country are my 
enemies ; and as long as the hostile feet of British soldiers 
tread the soil of Carolina, you have only to look from me for 
every impediment to their success, that my duty as well as 
inclination would lead me to oppose." 

I object with great decision, to the trifling causes of modern 
duelling. I have endeavoured, in several instances, and suc- 
cessfully, to calm irritation and reconcile the parties — but I 
I must confess, that there are provocations which might induce a 
: man to swerve from a duty which he ought to observe, a for- 
bearance from which he should not depart, and at every risk 
seek satisfaction. 



CELEBRATION OF THE BIRTH OF THE DAU- 
PHIN OF FRANCE. 

When the soldiers of the Continental army, regaled with 
an extra quantity of spirits, (a feu de joie having beea 



190 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

fired in honour of the birth of a Dauphin of France) had re* 
tired to their huts, and were in sociable conversation fighting, 
their battles over again, General Greene, passing in the rear 
of one of them, was highly gratified to hear a veteran Mary- 
lander exclaim — *' Credit is unquestionably due to the army 
before York Town, for their gallantry in compelling Lord 
Cornwallis to surrender ; but while the shouts of our fellow- 
citizens proclaim their triumphs throughout the United States, 
I hope that it will never be forgotten that the army of Greene, 
took off the keen edge of the sword of the enemy, and made 
him a far easier conquest, than he otherwise would have 
been." 



NOBLE-MINDED GERMAN. 

In the Pennsylvania Packet, May 9th, 1780, I find the 
following Anecdote. The resolution of Congress of the 18th 
March, respecting continental money, did incalculable injury 
to many of the citizens of Philadelphia. A meeting of the 
persons concerned being called, a German, who had always 
proved himself a decided whig, made use of the follomng 
patriotic sentiments : — " I am now near seventy years of age, 
and have a large family of children to provide for ; a great 
part of my property has been sold long since for continental 
money, which I have kept by me in full confidence that it 
would be redeemed at the value I received it ; but 1 am disap- 
pointed, and am completely a ruined man. My losses are 
heavy in themselves, and my afflictions greatly increased by 
the triumphs and isisolent conduct of my disaffected neigh- 
bours — yet I will new)' forsake the cause of my country and 
turn Tory. My fidelity once pledg. '1, shall be sacred forever. 
The reverses of fortune may kul nu — 1 mny die of a broken 
heart, but i wiU still die a friend to my country." 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 191 

In page 431, First Series of Revolutionary Anecdotes, a 
brief account is given of the expulsion of Congress from Phila- 
delphia by a large body of mutnieeers, attached to the Penn- 
sylvania line. The preliminary articles of peace had already 
been signed, and little prospect appeared of being again called 
into the field. The want of exertion is the bane of an army. 
Give soldiers active employment, and they only think of their 
duty ; let them be idle, and they instantaneously meditate 
mischief. General Gates, says Dr. Rush, (Vol i.) furnished 
me with a proof in point. Soon after his return from the com- 
mand of a large body of regular troops and militia at Ticon- 
deroga, desertions were frequent in his army while there was 
little to do, and yet during three weeks, in which an attack 
from General Burgoyne was hourly expected, there was not a 
man who quitted the standard of his country. But to come 
more to the point. The Pennsylvanians were clamorous for 
arrearages of pay, which it was impossible for Congress to dis- 
charge ; and yet on former occasions, when destitute of food and 
clothing, and oppr^issed by disease, had conducted themselves 
with praiseworthy forbearance. I will give one instance of it. 
The badness of the roads had interposed insurmountable diffi- 
culties to the transportation of the provisions necessary for the 
support of the army. A scanty supply of Indian corn was 
the only esculent possesssed. A committee of Field Officers 
waited on General Washington to represent the distresses and 
.discontent of the troops. Dinner at Head-Quarters being 
nearly ready, the General, with his usual politeness, asked 
them to dine before they received a final opinion as to their 
mission. Various preparations of Indian corn, much of it 
parched, and nothing else, was served up. The committee 
influenced by the example of their entertainer, partook of the 
simple fare with cheerfulness, and never renewed the subject 
of their mission. The simple dinner placed before them, was 
a sufficent answer to their complaints, and their report of the 
occurrence on their return to the troops, silenced every murmar; 



192 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



BATTLE ON PORT-ROYAL ISLAND. 

While I mentioned the gallantry of Moultrie and of the 
militia corps under his command, I certainly ought to have 
noticed the good conduct of a detachment of continental 
artillery, who, in no small degree, contributed to the success 
of the day. There were nine privates in the action, but 
several supernumerary officers being at the time at Beaufort, 
who reprobated the idea of remaining behind in such a 
business, they marched out with the troops, volunteering their 
services as private men. Captain De Treville^ commanded the 
gun carried into action ; Captain Mitchell pointed it against 
the enemy ; Lieutenant Moore applied the match and fired it ; 
Capt. Dunham used the sponge-staff for cleaning it out. There 
was one other captain present, whose name is lost, (probably 
Greyson, as he was an inhabitant of Beaufort.) Their gal- 
lantry met its reward : the gun was well served, and did great 
exec*ition. And great credit was allowed to all concerned, for 
laying aside all pretensions to rank, when the cause of their 
country called for their services in an inferior station. 



LIEUTENANT VLELAND. 

Among the slain at the disastrous siege of Savannah, was 
Lieutenant Vleland. Born in Switzerland, he left, in early 
life, his native mountains to fight the battles of freedom ; and 
entering a volunteer into the service of the United States, by 
his zeal and activity very speedily obtained distinction, and 
was commissioned in the Fii'st Regiment of South-Carolina 
Continentals. His enthusiastic ardour to obtain celebrity, 
attracting the admiration of a congenial spirit, he was, by 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 193 

Lieut. Col. John Laurens, entrusted with the command of the 
Forlorn Hope, which headed the Light Infantry led on by him 
to the attank of the British redoubts. In the conflict he fell, 
receiving a dreadful wound which rendered amputation es- 
sential, as affording the only chance of life. During the per- 
formance of the operation, (Lieut. Col. John Laurens and 
Lieutenant James Legare, to whom he was inexpressibly dear, 
assisting to cheer him by their presence) he once suffered a 
groan to escape him, when turning to the former he said, 
" Pardon, I beseech you, my dear Colonel, this weakness. My 
resolution was overcome by the severity of the agony I suf- 
fered. I will no more shrink from the trial ordained me." 
His fate was speedily determined. Spasms quickly succeeded 
the loss of his limb, and preserving a composure that could 
not be a second time subdued, he without a murmur expired. 



COLONEL WASSON. 

At the battle of Monmouth, Colonel Wasson, a distinguished 
officer, attached to the Massachusetts Line, received a wound 
which, literally speaking, stripped the flesh from his neck to 
the extremity of the back-bone. Recovery was considered as 
scarcely possible, but the Commander-in-chief, with whom he 
was a distinguished favourite, that every chance might be given 
him to effect it, had him removed to comfortable apartments 
in the neighbourhood of the battle-ground, and sent a surgeon 
of known humanity and great skill, to attend particularly to 
him. Accident put into the hands of this gentleman, a quan- 
tity of Port Wine, which was essentially serviceable to his 
patient ; but the spirits of the Colonel failing him, and the 
suppuration from the wound becoming intolerably offensive, 
and exhausting his strength entirely, death was considered as 
certain, and the opinion confirmed by a positive refusal 

17 



194 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

on the part of the wounded man to take either medicine 
or refreshment. This circumstance being communicated to 
General Washington, who called to make inquiries, he said, 
with his usual composure, " prepare your medicine, Doctor, 
I will endeavour by persuasion to make him more tractable." 
The request was no sooner complied with, than the Gereral 
approaching the bed where Wasson lay, said with an endear- 
ing smile, " Come, Wasson, my brave fullow, take this from 
my hand. Believe me, you are too good a man and too in- 
trepid a soldier to be spared from our army. You must not 
die. We have much need of your services, and you shall at 
a future day,^ find your reward in the gratitude of your coun- 
try." The medicine was taken ; and the Colonel, who was 
restored to health and strength, has often declared that the en- 
couragement given by his beloved commander, operated like 
a charm, revived his drooping spirits, and made the prospect 
of life once more acceptable to him. It gives me great pleasure 
to state, that Dr. William Read, of whom I have so often 
made honourable mention, was the surgeon who perfected the 
cure. 



RIFLE-SHOOTING. 

1 remember to have heard General C. C. Pinckney say, 
that he always found that expert riflemen made the best artil- 
lerists ; and as an instance of the perfection to which they fre- 
quently attained, he said, " that observing one day, while the 
siege of Charleston was carrying on, a reconnoitering party of 
the British approaching rather nearer than usual the lines 
of defence, he said to Captain Mitchell of the Artillery, do you 
not think Captain, that by a well-directed shot you could 
damp the prying curiosity of those gentlemen, who are looking 
out to discover, if possible, the weakest points of our lines 1 
* Certainly,' said Mitchell ; ' I will salute them with a shot 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 195 

aimed at the centre of the group, where I presume, the com- 
mander of the party has fixed himself.' A gun was immedi- 
ately prepared, pointed by the Captain, and discharged. A 
great confusion was perceived among the enemy, and it after- 
wards appeared, that the shot which had been fired, had taken 
oflTthe arm of Lord Caithness, who rode at the time at the 
side of, and the nearest officer to Sir Henry Clinton, the Com- 
mander-in-chief. 



Correction of an error hi the First Series, (page 97 J on the 
Authority of General Thomas Pinckney. 

BOLMAN. 

The wish to free General La Fayette (said General Tho- 
mas Pinckney to me in a letter recently received,) did not 
originate with Bolman. He had distinguished himself by 
contriving and effectuating the escape from Paris, of the 
Count de Narbonne, a distinguished Emigre, whom he con- 
ducted safely to London. The Count de Cadegnan, Captain 
Bomville, and another gentleman, aids of General La Fayette, 
were stationed in London, where they formed a little council 
devoted to the object of liberating their General, for which 
purpose they were furnished by me with money, from the 
funds sent me by our government for the use of the General, 
being the pay and commutation while acting as a Major Gene- 
ral in our service, which he had formerly refused to accept. 
These officers, to whom the escape of ftl. de Narbonne, and 
the means by which it was effected was known, engaged Bol- 
man, to attempt the liberation of La Fayette, and furnished him 
with the funds necessary for the enterprize. Huger was not 
in London, but in Germany, where Bolman fell in with him, and 
made the proposal for his co-operation, which was accepted 
as described in the remainder of the anecdote. 



196 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



LIEUT. COL. CAMPBELL, KILLED AT EUTAW. 

An instance of his romantic gallantry occurred in service, 
which I will mention, although it may fix the imputation on 
me, however unjust, of being a decided friend to duelling. 
His son, who bore a Subaltern's commission in his Regiment, 
had quarrelled with a brother officer, and some harsh expres- 
sions were eventually exchanged, when the dispute appeared 
to terminate. The indignant parent, insisting that a war of 
words was ill-suited to military characters, compelled him to 
call his adversary to the field, and accompanied liim to it as 
his second. 



MOB AT PHILADELPHIA IN 1779. 

Early in October, in the year 1779, the peace of the city of 
Philadelphia was disturbed by a band of desperadoes, who, 
jealous of the prosperity and influence of many distinguished 
citizens, resolved on their destruction. When I name Mr. 
Wilson, Robert Morris, G. Clymer, all signers of the Declara- 
tion of Independence, and General Mifflin and Major Lenox, 
who had so often fought, that they might be free, I do not 
hesitate to say, that theirs was a blind infatuation — their guilt 
consummate, and beyond excuse. A number of the most 
enlightened whigs, to save the lives of such valuable men, 
determined to aid them in defending themselves, and repaired 
for that purpose to Mr. Wilson's, where the party threatened 
had shut themselves up. A mob of two hundred persons had. 
assembled on the commons, composed, as it generally hap- 
pens, of strangers and vagabonds. A JMorth-Carolina Captain 
headed them, who immediately, with drams beating, marched 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 197 

his men to Mr. Wilson's house, and commenced firing, which 
was warmly returned hy those within. No impression having 
been made by the fire-arms, the door of the house was assailed 
by large sledge hammers, and was yielding to the vigour of 
the strokes applied to it, when a party of the 1st Philadelphia 
troop of horse, seven only in number, and aided by two Dra- 
goons of Bayler's Regiment, resolved to save or perish with their 
fellow-citizens. They were in a street contiguous, unseen by 
the mob. Dashing suddenly round the corner where Mr. 
Wilson*s house was situated, the cry of "the horse — the horse" 
was raised, and their numbers not being known, the rioters 
fled with precipitation in every direction, but not before two 
other detachments of the same troop had appeared, who took 
many prisoners, and wounded not a few; the sword being very 
freely used, till opposition was no more. Colonel Thomas 
Morris, of our city, was one of the seven engaged in the con- 
flict terminating so favourably to order and good govern- 
ment. 



SECRET EXPEDITION. 

In 1779, the Continental Soldiers, serving in South-Ci4roli- 
iia, were unusually sickly, and rumours prevailing in the 
Northern army, that great mortality existed among them. Gen. 
Washington gave a special commission to Dr. Read to visit the 
State, and inquire into, and ascertain the truth, and return 
and report thereon. Arrived at Charleston,- the Doctor had 
the satisfaction to find that the rumoured mortality had been 
greatly exagerated, which, on his return to the North, being 
reported, there can be no doubt that the reinforcements ordered 
to the South in 1780, marched forward with fiir greater alacri- 
ty than they would otherwise have done. The battle of Stono 
having occurred but a little before. Dr. Read visited the sick 
and wounded on the neighbouring plantations, and on Im 

17* 



108 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

return to Charleston, inspected the hospital, v/hich he also . 
found in good condition under its med'cal superintendants. 
A visit was then paid to General Moultrie, encamped with 
a considerable body of Continental troops and militia on the 
West end of James' Island, watchins: the movements of Pro- 
vost, who occupied John's Islajid, on the opposite side of the 
Stono river. Dr. Head, taking up his quarters for the night 
in the tent of a friend, was awakened by a voice calling for ; 
volunteers for a secret expedition Ambitious to engage in ' 
active service, he arose, and providing himself with arms and 
accoutrements, joined Captain Thomas Shubrick at the river 
side, who, with a party were ready to embark. Moving for- 
ward with muffled oars for some hours, the boat reached Mr. 
Robert Gibbes' landing on John's Island, about the dawn of 
day. The object of the expedition was then first made known. 
Two valuable imported horses, Flimnah and Abdallah, were in i 
the stables, ready to be carried oft' by the British, who were | 
about to retreat to Georgia. The centinel under whose care ! 
they were, was perceived leaning on his musket, fast asleep, 
gradually approached and secured ; the horses led out, mount- 
ed and li de off to Stono ferry, where they crossed the river, 
and were speedily lodged in a place of security. In the inte- 
rim, Mr. Gibbes raising up a window, said to Captain Shu- 
brick, *' Sir, you know not your danger, a British officer of 
great activity is quartered in the neighbourhood with a troop 
of dragoons — the neighing of the horses when led from the 
stables, has, beyond all doubt, given alarm, and immediate 
retreat is necessary for the safety of your party." The hint 
was taken, and the party scarcely embarked, when the bugle 
was heard and the approach of dragoons perceived, but too 
jate to do any injury. On returning to James' Island, Dr. 
Read immediately waited upon General IVIoultrie, not without 
some expectation of being complimented on the readiness 
with which he had engaged in the enterprize, but met with a 
.stern rebuke. The whole transaction was carried through 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 199 

witliout the General's knowledge or concurrence. *' I hate 
this predatory warfare," said the General — " give me fair 
fighting, when opportunity offers, and I am ready for it, but 
this unbecoming mode, which requires more cunning than 
courage, I thoroughly despise." No motive except the love 
of country actuated the soldiers of those days ; this long and 
fatiguing service was performed by Dr. R. altogether at his 
^wn expense. 



ENLISTMENTS. 

It certainly was one of the greatest errors in the American 
system of warfare, aiming at successful hostility, to admit of 
temporary enlistments, as it frequently happened that larg^e 
bodies of men demanded their discharges, at the very moment 
that their services were the most required. Some memorable 
instances occur where exertion was paralyzed, and enterprises 
the most promising relinquished, on account of this most un- 
fortunate arrangement. I, myself, witnessed one of impor- 
tance. Colonel Lee had, with his accustomed sagacity, dis- 
covered that the British army was vulnerable in a particular 
point, and had communicated to General Greene, the proba- 
bility of cutting off the entire detachment of their army, sta- 
tioned under the command of Lieut. Colonel Craig, on John's 
Island. The plan being approved, the troops detailed for the 
service were divided into two parties, the one to be command- 
ed by Lieut. Colonel Laurens, the other by Lee, in person. 
Two evenings previously to the contemplated expedition, I ac- 
companied Colonel Laurens to the parade, where, in language 
as forcible as could be used, pointing out the honours already 
acquired, and the fair prospect of crowning them with addi- 
tional laurels, he addressed a Continental Battalion, whose 
time of service had expired, and who were to coniinence theii' 



200 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

march homewards on the following morning, entreating them 
to remain but three days longer, assuriisg them that within i:hat 
period, a blow would be struck that wo(dd he heavily fell by 
the enemy, and cover themselves with perpetual glory. But, 
his eloquence was of little avail ; it appeared that a predeter- 
mination had been taken not to listen to any proposition that 
would prolong their cojitinuance with the army. One soldier, 
I well remember, exclaimed, "our zeal in the service cannot 
be denied; we have strictly adhered to the performance of 
every duty required of us, and our thinned ranks sufficiently 
proclaim, that in encountering danger, we have shown no 
backward fsess, nor inclination to shrink from battle. We 
were eight hundred strong when we joined the army — we can 
now scarcely muster three hundred. Five hundred men have 
fallen by sickness and the swoid — it is time that repose should 
be ours. We retire with the consciousness of having deserved 
well of our country. The want of zeal to the cause can never 
be justly imputed to us." Lieut. Colonel Laurens again and 
again endeavoured to rouse the sense of honour, and to bring- 
about a change of opinion, but his efforts were abortive, and 
on the day following the detachment commenced their march 
towards Virginia. J was not a little pleased by the distinction 
made by Lieut. Colonel Ternant, Deputy Inspector General, 
between such men as enlisted for a limited period of service 
and those engaged for the war. I attended him along the line 
of the company to which I belonged. One soldier's name be- 
ing called, he immediately presented arms, and declared aloud 
the time for which he was engaged to serve. Of such as 
were enlisted for limited periods, he took no manner of notice, 
but strictly to examine their arms and accoutrements ; but to 
every soldier who exclaimed when called upon by name, "/b?' 
the war r"* he respectfully bowed, and raising his hat, said, 
**yo«, Sir, are a gentleman I perceive, I am happy to mak«; 
an acquaintance with you." 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 201 



CAPTAIN LITTELL, OF NEW- JERSEY. 

That many interesting Revolutionary anecdotes have been 
lost, in consequence of the httle pains heretofore taken to pre- 
serve them is unquestionably true. I have now an instance 
before me, where a very imperfect account is communicated 
of the gallant conduct of a partizan soldier, who, had justice 
been done to his achievements, must have appeared with dis- 
tinguished eclat. 

Captain Litlell, of New-Jersey, was an officer of enterprize, 
and admirably fitted for the partizan warfare in which he was 
unremittingly engaged. I need no better proof of his zeal and 
activity, than that Sir Henry Clinton, to get rid of the perpe- 
tual vexations which he caused him to experience, offered a 
considerable reward for his head. His personal appearance 
was remarkably fine and imposing, from its strength well cal- 
culated to endure fatigue and privation, and from the corres- 
ponding temper of his mind, equal to the support of deeds of 
the most daring and hardy enterprize. His influence over 
his neighbours was unbounded; he could at all times com- 
mand their exertions ; but not being attached to any particular 
corps, his services, though great, were passed over unnoticed, 
and while severely felt by the enemy, obtained for him but 
little credit at home. In the winter of 1776 and '77, when 
the British had overrun New-Jersey, and established posts in 
most of the principal towns throughout the State, the success- 
ful enterprize of General Washington in passing the Delaware, 
and surprising the detachments of their army at Trenton and 
Princeton, gave a new turn to the war, and compelling them 
to concentrate their forces, called into activity the guerilla 
warriors, who made it impossible for them to quit their posts 
without the certainty of great loss, and not unfrequently 
ef entire destruction. On ail these occasions. Captain Littell 



202 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

was pre-eminently distinguished. On the day that Newark 
was abandoned by tlie British force which occupied it as a 
garrison marching to EHzabethtown, a company of Wal- 
deckers was despatched on some particular service towards 
the Connecticut Farms — Littell and his followers speedily dis- 
covered and followed them. Dividing his small force into two 
bodiis, he placed one in ambush in the rear, and appearing in 
front with the other, demanded an immediate surrender. The 
Germans wished to retrograde, but meeting with the party 
expressly concealed to impede their retreat, and briskly as- 
sailed in front, surrendered without firing a gun. The British 
General, exasperated by their capture, ordered out a body of 
Hessians to revenge the affront ; but the superior knowledge 
of the country by Littell and his associates, enabling them to 
goad the enemy at various points with spirited attacks, without 
any great degree of exposure, they were also driven into a 
swamp, and compelled to surrender to inferior numbers. Mor- 
tified beyond measure by this second discomfiture, a troop of 
horse were ordered out, but they in turn were routed, and only 
more fortunate than those who had preceded them, by being 
able, by the rapid movement of their horses, to escape pursuit. 
A tory, to whom a considerable reward was offered for the 
performance of the service, now led three hundred men to the 
house of Captain Littell, who believing that he was securely 
pent up within, commenced a heavy discharge of musquetry 
upon it from all sides. The Captain, however, was not to be so 
easily entrapped, and while they were making preparation to 
storm the deserted dwelling, were attacked in the rear, being 
previously joined by another body of volunteers, and drivcFi 
with precipitation from the field. Littell, in the interim, witk 
a part of his force, had formed an ambuscade along a fence 
gide, and perceiving the enemy slovi ly approaching, levelled and 
discharged his piece, and t'.t comT;riHf;= r fell. The British, 
unable from the darkness of the mght, to make any calculation 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 203 

with regard to the number of their opponents, were intimidated 
and sought safety in flight. 

My correspondent gives me reason to hope for additional 
information relative to this bold partizan, but so many delays 
have occurred by the removal of papers on which he had to 
to depend for information, that I fear, for the present at least, 
I must take leave of Captain Liltell. I think him an officer of 
great promise, and it will give me great pleasure to bring him 
more particularly into public view. 



x\[RS. NELSON. 

The occurrence which T am about to relate, is given on the 
authority of a lady of the highest respectability — one, who I 
am cj'ifident, would rather perish than propagate what she 
considered a falsehood. 

When Lord Cornvvallis, on his march to the interior country 
after the fall of Charleston, established his quarters at Nelson's 
Ferry. Mrs. N. who was then a widow, received from him an 
assurance " that protection should be extended to her property, 
and that no injury would result from his stay under her roof." 
Mr. Nelson, when living, had manifested an unaccountable 
desire to possess a large quaiitity of plate, and had made con- 
siderable purc/Kises of that article. On the approach of the 
British army, fearing the consequences of exposure, the whole 
was collected, and, as Mrs. N. hoped, buried in a sequestered 
spot, too well concealed to be suspected, and from which ihere 
was scarcely a possibility of its being removed but by her 
orders. Her calculations were altogether erroneous. Her 
secret was betrayed ; the plate found, and triumphantly 
brought to view as a prize to the captors. Mrs. N. alarmed 
at the prospect of being deprived of a property so valuable, 
now thought fit to remonstrate, and in language the most 



204 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

respectful, leminded his Lordship of the protection which he 
had promised. " I certainly did engage," replied Cornwallis, 
*• to secure to you the quiet possession of every thing above 
ground. What you chose to bury, I am not bound to protect. 
The prize must be given to those who discovered it." I do 
not entertain a thought that his Lordship benefited in the 
slightest degree, in the division of the spoil. I believe him in- 
capable of such abject meanness; but by his countenance of 
the act, he sanctioned an unjustifiable theft ; and certain it is, 
that Mrs. N. till her death, declared that the chest containing 
the property, was carried off in his Lordship's own private 
wagon. 



WILLIAM CARSON. 

Among the adherents to the British cause, there was not 
an individual whose inveterate prejudices were more constantly 
pxercised to aggravate misfortune, and keep alive the spirit of 
resistance, than this man. Incessantly engaged in the attempt 
to excite jealousy and raise the indignation of the ruling au- 
thorities against the unfortunates witliin their power, his ma- 
lignity would have been productive of incalculable mischief, 
had they not considering him weak and knowing him wicked, 
disdained to listen to his councils. 1 have, in the First Series of 
my Anecdotes, given an instance of his blundering propensi- 
ties, in his address to Provost^ partaking of a dinner given to 
him by tlie refugees from Carolina and Georgia, in consequence 
of his being the bearer of the grateful intelligence of the re- 
pulse of the French and Americans before Savannah, and the 
indignation excited in the bosoms of his companions in conse- 
quence of it.* 1 remember meeting with him in Edinburgh, 
in the year 1778, when being altogether ignorant of his real 

* Vide p. 263. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 205 

character, I accepted of an invitation to sup with him at his 
lodgings, where he assured me I should meet a party com- 
posed, as he stated, of friends to America. I soon perceived 
that it would have been difficult to have selected a company 
more discordant in political sentiments than that which I 
found assembled. Mr. Carson immediately made the rights 
of Britain the theme of conversation, and appeared to chuckle 
with delight, at the results that difference of sentiment, sup- 
ported with zeal and strong indications of resentment, was 
likely to produce ; when Dr. Cooper, formerly President of the 
College of New- York, who^ was present, put an end to the 
altercation, by jocosely exclaiming, "We met, gentlemen, for 
convivial purposes, not to disgrace ourselves by indulging 
in inveterate animosity. In political creed, we are much at 
point and not likely to convert each other. So fill every man 
a bumper, and I will offer a toast, which each individual may 
drink, in the sense that best suits his inclination. 
" Here's a full swing to Congress." 



Ungenerous Conduct of General Pigot, towards certain 
American Officers, his Prisoners, 

The same spirit of oppression that distinguished the conduct 
of the British officers in the South, was indulged and exer- 
cised in the Middle and Eastern States with unremitted se- 
verity. The news of the capture of Burgoyne having reached 
the American prisoners parolledon Long Island, Major Lenox, 
Major Hamilton, and Dr. Steward, of the Pennsylania Line, 
with heart-felt joy repaired to Flatbush, to celebrate an 
event so propitious to the cause of their country, so congenial 
with their own best hopes and most sanguine wishes. The 
night was passed at the festive board, but their conduct was 
in no way calculated to give offence. No symptom of exul- 

18 



206 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

tation was shewn — boisterous mirth would have degraded a 
feeling- of delight, silent but sincere. In the morning, a fish- 
cart filled with shad passing through the village. Major Lenox 
asked the proprietor " if he would sell a part of his load." 
"Not to a rebel-scoundrel," he replied, "though he were 
starving." This oflfensive answer was no sooner given than 
resented. Major Lenox struck the speaker to the earth. An 
affray was the immediate consequence ; in which the American 
officers, as might have been expected, were overpowered and 
severely beaten. But this was not the last of their sufferings. 
Charged with an assault, and conducted before General Pigot, 
Major Lenox, in a plain, unvarnished representation of facts, 
related the provocation, and asked if it was possible to have 
withheld punishment from a rascal who so richly deserved it. 
" It is our business (said the General) to protect and cherish 
such of your countrymen as take protection. You must sub- 
mit, therefore, to ask pardon for the outrage committed, or 
take the consequences that must inevitably follow." " Ask 
pardon of that scoundrel, (said Lenox.) Never !" " Will you, 
sir," said the General to Major Hamilton : " May I perish if 
I do," was the reply. The question was put to Stewart, and 
answered with equal indignation. " You must be introduced 
then, (said the irritated General) to the Provost Marshal : Mr. 
Cunningham, they are your prisoners — you know your duty." 
Six months of close and rigorous confinement, was the conse- 
quence of an act that a generous enemy would not only have 
thought just, but commendable. 



GENERAL ISAAC HUGER. 

In my First Series of Anecdotes,* I have given a striking 
proof of the personal intrepidity of General Isaac Huger, 

* Vide p. 97. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 207 

endeavouring by example to inspire his men with courage, 
and restore the order which had been lost in Gunby's Regi- 
ment. I have a proof equally strong of his composure in 
action. An officer calling out to him, " General Huger, f 
plainly see one of the enemy's riflemen taking deliberate aim 
to destroy you." " That is no concern of mine," said the 
General, *' If you think proper, order one of your men to 
take the fellow oft'." " Dodge, or change your position," re- 
joined the officer, " or you are a dead man." " I will neither 
dodge nor quit my post," replied the General, "be the conse- 
quence what it may." 



Fortunate Escape of Dr. Williaji Read, and the other 
Officers o1 the generai Hospital^ from Massacre. Furnished 
by himself. 

General Greene retired through North-Carolina with his 
army and prisoners, after the victory of the Cowpens. The 
retreat of the general Hospital from Salisbury to Virginia, 
being in charge of Dr. Read, with a number of sick and 
wounded of our army as well as of the British, it was neces- 
sary to proceed with caution and circumspection, as the party 
were marched through a country, some districts of which were 
decidedly inimical to us. The prisoners frequently escaped, 
especially the Queen's Rangers, who were seen in arms 
against us, in a few hours afterwards, mounted, and joined by 
the country people, watching every opportunity to impede our 
progress and capture our men ; which, however, was generally 
prevented by our well-appointed corps of invalids. The young 
gentlemen of the department were in the habit, for pastime, 
to nickname our party, and would play on the credulity of the 
country people by calling one Cornwallis, another Kniphausen^ 
4tG» Our party had, indeed, a very equivocal appearance. 



208 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

Many soldiers wore scarlet, and some green, taken from the 
field of battle. The jest was reprobated by Dr. Read and Dr. 
Gillet, a respectable Senior, who had joined the department, 
and our young men and the soldiers were told that it was dan- 
gerous to put on any thing like equivocal character in our situ- 
ation. Still the joke continued, and went through the ranks. 
Dr. Read sensible of the hardships and privations which the 
party suffered, permitted this playfulness to go on for pastime, 
and did not sternly put it down, when it nearly proved fatal in 
the following manner. Halting one evening at the house of 
Mr. Spencer, the patients being a little in advance, the officers 
laid down in their blankets in the hall of the log-hut to sleep, 
Spencer being at the time out with the militia ; the party be- 
lieved themselves in friendly quarters, and dispersed with the 
usual precaution of placuig out sentinels. It was Dr. Read's 
practice to leave one of the gentlemen of the department in 
the rear to remedy evils, stop hemorrhages, and bring in strag- 
glers. It was Dr. Brownfield's turn that night ; when putting 
up at a house in the rear, he heard a clattering of arms, 
and preparations and threats of an attack on the British party 
which were at Spencer's : Dr. Brownfield got up, and con- 
vinced that it must be our party, dissuaded the men, preparing 
to go forward, from proceeding, promising to accompany them 
in the morning, and to be answerable for all consequences. 
The Doctor saw at once that the jest had been the cause of the 
mistake. An old man had secretly escaped from Spencer's, 
and given the information, as Mrs. S. had (as she supposed) in- 
duced a soldier to tell the truth, and she thought to serve the 
cause by destroying the British commander and his suite. The 
parly came up in the morning, and we all rejoiced with each other 
on their providential escape. Their plan was to have fired 
between the logs, and then to have rushed in with swords and 
tomahawks to have finished the work of destruction. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 209 



PETER FRANCISCO. 

If it were an object with me to speak of feats of personal 
strength and prowess joined with consummate boldness and 
intrepidity, I should be at no loss for Anecdotes; for I scarcely 
ever met with a man in Virginia who had not some miracu- 
lous tale to tell of Peter Francisco. Romantic as his exploits 
were, and well calculated to afford amusement to the generality 
of readers, I shall mention one only, for which he was certainly 
entitled to great praise. A marauder, attached to a British 
Regiment of Dragoons, entered the chamber of a solitary habi- 
tation, where Francisco was sitting unarmed, and totally un- 
conscious of the approach of an enemy. " Give up, instan- 
taneously, all that you possess of v«-ilue," said the soldier, " or 
prepare to die." " I have nothing to give up," said Fran- 
ciso : " so use your pleasure." " Deliver instantly," rejoined 
the soldier, " those massy silver buckles which you wear in 
your shoes." " They were a present to me from a valued 
friend," said Francisco, " and it would grieve me to part with 
them. Give them into your hands I never will. You have 
the power, take them if you think fit." The Dragoon placed 
his sabre beneath his arm, the hilt of it being invitingly pre- 
sented in his front, which being quickly perceived by Fran- 
cisco, he seized it eagerly, and by a deadly blow, not only 
severed the head of his antagonist completely in two, but car- 
ried the division through the entire neck to the point in which 
they were united to the body. 

The exploits of this extraordinary man have given exercise 
to the talents of the painter also. I have seen an engraving 
in which he is represented engaged in conflict with Five British 
Dragoons, the whole of whom he made his prisoners ; but I 
am not sufficiently acquainted with the particulars- to give .«o 
gallant an action a place in these Anecdotes. 

18* 



210 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTEfef. 



M'ELROTH. 

That necessity has been justly deemed "the mother of in- 
vention," is strongly exemplified by the anecdote which fol- 
lows. When the current of success, which had for a length 
of time favoured the British army, appeared decidedly to take 
a new course, and run in an opposite direction. Governor 
Rutledge, ever mindful of his duty, and anxiously solicitous 
for the welfare of his country, returned with all expedition to 
his native State, which he had been compelled to abandon, 
and evidently perceiving the advantages that would flow from 
it, determined to issue a proclamation, tendering forgiveness 
to all, who, from the mistaken ideaofthe inutility of resistance j 
or the hope of quitting the fatigues and dangers of the field, 
for the tranquil enjoyments of domestic ease and security, 
had submitted to the foe and sought their protection. So uni- 
versal, however, had been the destruction of property, that 
neither types nor a printing-press could be obtained. A me- 
chanic of distinguished talent, whose name was M'Elroth, 
was an inhabitant of the interior country ; to him Governor 
Rutledge repaired, and pointing out the advantages that might 
be expected, from the wide dissemination of the contemplated 
proclamation, among the wavering and disaffected, earnestly 
lequested him to prepare the types necessary for the accom- 
plishment of his purpose. M'Elroth was a staunch and 
decided whig, but though willing to comply with the Governor's 
wishes, declared himself, from conviction, incompetent to the 
task. " I have never in my life," he said, " seen a type, or 
learned by what process they are prepared." " Your good 
will," replied the Governor, *' will do much ; your inventive 
talent still more, and remember how great the honour which 
awaits you, when it shall be said, that the expulsion of the 
enemy was in a great measure owin^ to your intelligent exei:- 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 211 

lions." The experiment proved altogetiier successful. Types 
were made of pewter, with a mixture of other metals. A 
press constructed, and the Proclamation of the Governor ra- 
pidly spread throughout the country — revived the hopes of the 
desponding — dispelled the fears of the timid — confirmed the 
the steady adherence of the patriotic band, who had never 
shrunk from their duty, and roused the entire population of 
the State, to oppose the enemy Avith renovated zeal and ener- 
gy, till their final expulsion and retreat from our shores. 



SCOTT, OF JERSEY. 

At the battle of Springfield, in Jersey, a well directed shot 
from the British, mortally wounded Captain Thompson of the 
artillery, and a Sergeant of the name of Scott. The latter, a 
North Briton by birth, inspired by an enthusiastic attachment 
to liberty, had, at the commencement of the war, crossed the 
Atlantic, expressly to fight under the banners of America. 
Colonel Forrest, who commanded the Artillery on that. occa- 
sion, assured me, that on approaching the wounded men, he 
found the Captain perfectly resigned to his fate, while Scott 
was deafenning all around him, by the loud tones and vehe- 
mence with which he uttered his prayers. Attributing his 
clamours to unbecoming pusillanimity, the Colonel indignantly 
exclaimed, " damn you,l5cott, be less noisy, and if you must 
die — die like a man." The wounded soldier brought to his 
recollection by this reproach, immediately replied, '* I will 
endeavour to do so. Colonel, and changing his manner, and 
the tones of his voice, thus addressed his companions : " My 
fellow-soldiers— men were never engaged in a more hallowed 
cause, than that which we are pledged to support. If I, who 
am a stranger in your land, who came from a far distant 
country to fight your battles think so, and have sealed my 



212 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

opinions with my blood, how much more is it your duty, td 
cherish the seiitiine);!, who have your wives — your children — 
your country, to c;iii forth your unremittinu" energies, to expel 
the hostile invader "? — Fight on then, with zi'al and constancy 
to the last. It is your comrade's last requ*^- t." When striving 
to raise a shout of encouragement, he famled and expired. 



LIEUT. REESE BOWEN. 

At the battle of King's Mountain, Lieut. Reese Bowen, of 
Coloiicl Campheh's Regiment, raised in Washington County, 
Virginia, was observed while marching forward to attack the 
enemy's post, to make a hazardous and very unnecessary ex- 
posure of his person. One of his companions calling out, 
" why Bowen, do you not take a tree — why rashly present 
yourself to the deliberate aim of riflemen, concealed behind 
every rock and bush before you 1 Death must inevitably fol- 
low if you pt-rsist." He indignantly replied, " take to a tree ! 
no — never shall it be said, that 1 sought safety by hiding my 
person, or dodging from a Briton or tory, who opposed me in 
the field." As he concluded the sentence, a rifle-ball struck 
him in the breast. He fell and expired. 



CAPTAIN ADAM WALLACE, OF VIRGINIA. 

In justice to the memory of Captain Adam Wallace, I feel 
myself bound to give thefoUowingbrief account of his bravery, 
as certified by a number of ofiic»/rs and soldiers of Buford's 
Regiment, at the disastrous battle of the Waxaws. Captain 
Wallace was posted on the right of the Regiment when the 
enemy made their attack, and was not a little shocked, after 
the exchange of a few shots, to hear Buford order his men 



N 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 213 

to ground their arms. Captain W. so far obeyed as to cease 
liriiig, but speedily perceiving that no quarter was to be given, 
ordered his men to engage with their wonted bravery, and to 
sell their hves as dearly as possible. His personal activity 
and intrepidity were conspicuous, bravely defending himself 
against a host of foes ; his aim was to reach Tarleton, and 
actually approached sufficiently near him to make several 
thrusts at him, though, unhappily, without effect. While 
thus engaged, a blow from a sabre on the back part of his 
neck, nearly severed his head from his body. He was found 
dead on the field of battle with a British officer slain by his 
hand at his feet. Colonel Tarleton, albeit unused to compli- 
ment an enemy, publicly said, " the bravery of this man enti- 
tles him to immortal honour." 



DIFFERENT MODES OF QUELLING A REBEL- 

LION. 

During the mutiny of the Pennsylvania line, Congress de- 
legated one of their own body. Dr. Witherspoon, together with 
the Generals, Greene and Wayne to endeavour to bring them 
back to reason, and a proper sense of their duty. " How shall 
we set about this business ]" asked General Greene. " I would 
commence," said Dr. Witherspoon, by giving them a ser- 
mon. Religious admonition might be attended with powerful 
effect." " I," said Wayne, " would call for the aid of the 
militia, and such continentals as are faithful, and bring them 
to their senses at the point of the bayonet.'* "Let persuasion 
be tried in the first instance," said General Greene. Major 
Hamilton and another popular officer, were sent forward ac- 
cordingly, for that purpose. Approaching the camp of the 
mutmeers, a corporal stepped forward and exclaimed, " Major 
Hamilton, I wish you well, I would not harm you, but by th(^ 



214 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

God of Heaven, if you advance a step, you are a dead man. 
This is no moment for negotiation." And the party retired. 
A much more effectual measure was pursued in Carohna, 
when the privates of the first Regiment rebelled, and set their 
officers at defiance. General Barnwell, an officer of consum- 
mate bravery, assured me that he could never sufficiently ad- 
mire the calm and steady conduct of Major Pinckney, on so 
trying an occasion, for while other officers endeavoured with- 
out success to check the increasing spirit of insubordination, 
and with mortified pride found their commands resisted, and 
their harangues received with taunts and revilings, the firm- 
ness and decision of Major Pinckney at once put an end to 
sedition. Regardless of personal safety, he walked delibe- 
rately into the midst of the mutineers, and with a blow of his 
sabre, cut down their ringleader. The disaffected, who before 
breathed nothing but vengeance, without an exception, return- 
ed to their duty, sueing loudly for mercy and forgiveness. 



BENJAMIN ELLIOTT. 

Of this decided patriot, I have often wished to speak, be- 
cause his devotion to the cause of his country was exemplary 
and unbounded; his ardour for military fame, pre-eminently 
conspicuous, and eagerness to engage in arduous enterprize 
so constant, that Pulaski, who had regarded his enthusiasm 
with a military eye, was wont to say of him, " here is a hero 
after my own heart. This is my own old soldier." I have 
but a single instance to adduce of his determined spirit, but 
that I think will sufficiently prove it. On the retreat of a part 
of the American forces across Ashley ferry, during Provost's 
invasion, the confusion in the rear was so great, that the boat 
was abandoned to the enemy, and even the tow-rojie left unin- 
jured. This was no sooner perceived by Mr. Benjamin 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 215 

Elliott, the gentleman in question, from the high land, where, 
by a long causeway it was united to the river, than without 
consideration of personal danger, he gallopped down to the 
river-edge under a very heavy fire from the enemy on the op- 
posite shore, and cutting the rope with his sabre, allowed the 
boat, which was crowded with soldiers, to be hurried down by a 
rapid stream, the middle of which they had reached, and 
thereby removed from his companions all apprehension of 
further pursuit. 



MRS. CALDWELL. 

The same spirit of deadly animosity which characterized 
the entire coiiduct of the British troops in the Southern Spates, 
marked also their unrestrained barbarity in otfier sections of 
the Union. There inveteracy perhaps was not as frequently 
shown, but where exercised, was in its consequences equally 
fatal. There were few occurrences during the war which ex- 
cited so universal a sentiment of horror, or generated keener 
resentments towards the British, tiian the deliberate and san- 
guinary murder of Mrs. Caldwell, on the expedition to Spring- 
field. In the month of June, 1780, during the absence of Sir 
Henry Clinton to the southward, five thousand men and seven- 
teen pieces of Artillery, under the command of the Flessian 
General Kniphausen, left New-York, landed at Elizabeth 
town, and advancing to the Connecticut farms, about five 
miles distant, set fire to the village, and entirely destroyed the 
Presbyterian Church, and fourteen dwellings and barns, leav- 
ing the inhabitants completely destitute, without food and 
without shelter. In the neighbourhood lived the Rev. Mr. 
Caldwell, whose unremitted zeal and activity in the cause of 
his country, had rendered l)im particularly obnoxious to its 
oppressors, who had even carried their resentments so far, a« 



216 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

to set a price on his head. Until this period he had eluded 
every attempt to injure him, but unfortunately milled by 
too great confidence in their generous use of power, and believ- 
ing it impossible that resentment could be extended to a mother 
watching over the safety of her children, he incautiously left his 
family at their mercy, and joined the troops collecting to oppose 
them. The unprepared militia being driven from the neigh- 
bourhood, a fair opportunity was offered for injuring Mr. Cald- 
well in the tenderest point, nor was it neglected. A British 
Sergeant approached the house, and putting his musket within 
the window of the room, in which this excellent lady was sit- 
ting, surrounded by her children, and holding an infant in her 
arms, discharged it, and shot her dead on the spot. A Hes- 
sian Captain then ordered a hole to be dug, and the body 
throw n into it. At the earnest request, however, of an officer 
of the New Levies, it was afterwards suffered to be removed to 
a small house in the neighbourhood. Mr. C's. mansion, with 
all that it contained was then set fire to, and completely de- 
stroyed. Mr. Caldwell was thus left, with nine small children, 
looking up to him for support, without even a change of clothes 
or shelter under which he could procure them refuge. But 
this unmanly and cruel act did not escape severe and exem- 
plary punishment. So far from demonstrations of terror be- 
ing exhibited over the country, as had been expected the inha- 
bitants breathed only sentiments of revenge. It animated the 
brave with new energy, and caused even the timid to perform 
feats of valourous daring unlooked for, and never before exhi- 
bited. The great object of the British expedition was com- 
pletely defeated. The entire population of the country, 
thronged to the standard of liberty. The invading army was 
foiled at every point, and nothing but the precipitancy of their 
retreat saved them from entire destruction. It was on this 
occasion that Mr. Timothy Ford quitted his collegiate studies, 
and joining the army as a volunteer, received two severe 
wounds, which did not, however, prove mortal, leaving him at 



REVOLUTIOiNARV Ax\£CDOTES. 217 

a future period to render those important services to his coun- 
try, which must necessarily exalt his character, in the opin- 
ion of every genuine patriot, and every good and virtuous 
citizen. 



PETER ROBESON. 

Peter Robeson, of Bladen County, was pre-eminently dis- 
tinguished by his attachment to whig principles, and of course 
detested by the tories in his neighbourhood. Being on one 
occasion on duty at a distance from home, his house was 
assailed at noon-day by a party, expressly for the purpose of 
reducing it to ashes. Mrs. R. was ordered to remove a cradle 
in which an infant reposed, which not being done with the ex- 
pedition required, one of the party overturned the cradle, to 
the great injury of the child, which, however, being speedily 
snatched up by the mother, escaped the flames in which the 
house was completely enveloped. Robeson, returning to the 
spot some days afterwards, gave indulgence to the spirit of 
resentment. Irritated by the loss of his property, and still 
more by the cruelty exercised towards his child, with a select 
party of friends, he set out with the resolution to pursue his 
enemies to extermination, and it is said actually put thirteen of 
them to death with his own hands. 



GODFREY. 

Captain Godfrey, and his brother Johii Dreher, were assailed 
by a purxy of tones, about thirty in number, headed by a Bri- 
tish officer. Leaving their horses under a guard, these unwei- 
comed intruders quickly surrounded the house, when the officer 
entering with a few of his men, demanded of the terrified 

19 



218 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

mother where her sons were. Aware that their object was to 
destroy them, she raised her voice, that they who were at the 
time in an upper room might hear and be apprized of their 
danger, demanding by what authority they sought them, and 
what they wished to say. The Captain perceiving a stair- 
case leading to an upper story immediately advanced towards 
it. Her sons, who from the perilous position of their habita- 
tion, were ever in expectation of attack, and prepared for hos- 
tility, flew to their arms, and met their adversary at the head 
of the stairs, each presenting a cocked pistol. Lieut. Dreher, 
immediately fired, and mortally wounded his enemy, who, 
falling back on his comrades, so completely intimidated them, 
that they fled with precipitation towards their horses, and 
communicating their panic, the whole ran off, leaving their 
entire spoils and property to the victors. The brothers, as 
they quitted the house, opened the upper windows, and firing 
several shots, gave alarm to the neighbouring whigs, who 
quickly collecting, secured the prize they had gained. Re- 
turning to the house, every attention was given to the wound- 
ed officer, but in vain ; he speedily expired, owning that his 
object was to destroy both the house and its inhabitants. 



KNUCKLES. 

In the neighbourhood of Pacolet Springs, resided John 
Knuckles, an active enterprising whig. The whole of Union 
District witnessed his zeal, which caused him to be marked 
as an object for destruction, by those of the inhabitants who 
had given in their adhesion to the British commanders. Soon 
as a fit occasion offered for a display of their cherished re- 
sentment, his house was, in the dead of the night, surrounded, 
he was taken from the bed in which he reposed with his wife 
and an infant son, not a month old, and never after heard of. 



REVOLUTIOxNAIlY ANECDOTES. 219 

Some months after, however, a skeleton was found in the 
vicinity of Iiis house, which was universally believed to he 
his. 



TAKING THE OATH OF ALLEGIANCE. 

While the army lay at Valley Forge, in December, 1776, 
Major Forrest, having, in compliance with a general order, 
marched the officers of his regiment to General Knox*s quar- 
ters, that they might take the oath prescribed by Congress, to 
Jefend and support the independence of the States, as declared 
3n the preceding 4th of July. An Irish officer stepping for- 
ivard, exclaimed, *' before we go in, could you not, Major, 
contrive to see the General, and prevail on him to put little 
[reland in the oath ?" " It would never do," said the Major, 
' but while we are engaged with England on one side, let Ire- 
land sieze the golden opportunity and assail her on the other. 
\^ow is the time." " And so say I," rejoined the officer, 
■' and if she fail to do it, let her sons from henceforth and for- 
ever boil their potatoes in a wooden skillet." 



BARRY AND SWEENY. 

In ray first series,* it will be seen that I had accompanied 
the British Commodores, Affleck and Sweeny, to visit Capt. 
Barry, on board the Alliance Frigate. The kindred spirit of 
brave men, caused them at once to discover each other's pei*fec- 
dons. The intercourse of a few days, passed in friendly com- 
munication, made these sons of Neptune as intimate as bro-p 

* Page 434. 



220 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTKS. 

thers. To have seen them together, it might readily havfe 
been supposed that they had been engaged through life in the 
same service, and animated with similar hopes and similar 
desires, and had shared the toils and vicisitudes of war to- 
gether. When the moment of separation arrived, Sweeny 
taking Barry affectionately by the hand, said, " Adieu my 
countryman!" "Not exactly so," said Barry, "you. Com- 
modore, are a Briton, I an American." "lam," rejoined 
Sween}^, " an Irishman, and so are you, too, Barry, or if not 
you ought to be. You have too many of the strong features 
of a genuine Irishman for me to be mistaken in you. Your 
attachment to the cause of the country, for which you have 
fought and bled, is both natural and highly to your honour, 
but by Jesus, you are too good a fellow for old Ireland to relin- 
quish the claims that she has upon your best affections." 



INDIAN ANECDOTE. 

It is well known that the influence of the British over the 
5^arious Indian tribes on the frontiers of the United States, had, 
during the whole of the Revolutionary war, caused that san- 
guinary race to indulge in every species of rapine and car- 
nage. While in conversation with Judoje Peter Johnson, at 
Abingdon, in the summer of 1826, a very plainly dressed 
countryman, somewhat advanced in years, passed by us, 
which occasioned my companion to observe, " there. Major, 
goes a man, who has done the State much service, having by 
his active exertions cut off the last body of hostile Indians that 
ever committed depredations in Virginia. Murders without 
number had been perpetrated on tiie frontier, and many fami- 
lies carried into captivity. This man, with anxious solicitude, 
Witnessed the enormities committed, and determined, if possi- 
ble, to discover the path by Avbich the pettlements were invaded, 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 221 

the suKreunding mountains bein^ supposed to be inaccessible. 
Two ^aps in the Cumberland mountain were explored, which 
appeared to him the passages selected by the invaders, as the 
best calculated to facilitate their entrance into the settlements. 
Information of the discovery was immediately communicated 
to the families the most exposed, with a request that on the 
very first appearance of an Indian, intelligence should be given 
to him, who had organized a party expressly for the purpose 
of preventing mischief. News soon after arrived that thirteen 
Indians, headed by a half-breed leader of great notoriety, had 
reached the settlement of a Mr. Livingston, and after murdering 
all the males of the family, were carrying off Mrs. L. as their 
captive. The heroic protector of the unfortunate immediately 
divided his men into two parties, sending off the one under 
the command of a brave and trusty friend to one of the gaps, 
and took post at the other himself, with the remainder of his 
force. Strict orders were given, on no pretext whatever to 
fire, but one of the men perceiving an Indian approach, could 
not withstand the temptation of making a good shot, dis- 
charged his piece, and with deadly effect! The Indian fell 
and expired. The alarm given, the invaders would have 
sought safety by flight, but a very heavy fire being poured in 
upon them, the half-breed and every individual of the party fell, 
save only one, who, terrified in the extreme, fled to the woods 
till opportunity occurred of recrossing the mountain, when he 
gave so terrific an account of the slaughter of his companions, 
that the disposition to engage in enterprizes attended with such 
hazard of life subsided, and no Indian was ever again known 
to enter the settlements with hostile intentions. Mrs. L. on 
the report of the first gun fell to the ground, by which manoeu- 
vre her life was saved. 



222 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



A more particular explanation of a transaction recorded in my 
first series of Anecdotes, page 109. 

It is a fact well understood, that at the period of the strug- 
gle of party, in the year 1800, that General C. C. Pinckney, 
hy consenting to unite his name with that of Mr. Jefferson, 
would have secured to himself the unanimous vote of the 
electors of South-Carolina. But consistent with his decided 
principles, such an association could not be entered into. 
There was no voting at that time for a Vice-President. By 
the Constitution, each Sfate voted for two persons as Presi- 
dent, one of whom was not to be of the State voting ; the 
highest on the list, having a majority of the whole, was to be 
President, the next Vice-President. Now, if C. C. Pinckney 
had received the votes of South-Carolina, which he might 
done, had he have consented to a coalition with Mr. Jefterson, 
as proposed by his friends in the State Legislature ; these 
added to all the Federal votes, would have made him Presi- 
dent. While he was acting this noble and candid part, the 
Adams' party in New-England were plotting to secure the 
Presidential Chair to their own candidate, which they knew 
would be endangered, if both the Federalists should receive an 
equal number of votes. They, therefore, threw away several 
votes for the second candidate, sfivinoj the whole to John 
Adams. It is evident, therefore, that if General C. C. Pinck- 
ney, could have been guilty of a derciiction of principle, the 
want of faith to party might have been excused from this in- 
stance of the conduct of the friends of Mr. Adams. The 
opinion of the Ex-President Adams, writing to General Gads- 
den, 1 have already recorded in my first series. " I have been 
well-isiformed of the frank, candid and honourable conduct of 
General C. C. Pinckney, at your State election, which was 
conformable to the whole tenour of his actions through life, as' 
far as they have come to my knowledge." 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 223 



Imputation of Ingratitude incorrectly fixed on Republics. 

Prejudices that are once entertained, are afterwards difficult 
to shake off. The stigma of ingratitude has been pronounced 
a characteristic of Republics — in my belief (as far as our 
nation is implicated in the charge) unjustly. I once cherished 
an opposite opinion It was at a period when the inveteracy 
of party spirit assailed the fair fame of Washington. But I 
very frankly allow, that, even then, too hastily; for by whom 
were the scandalous aspersions of character fabricated, but by 
a set of unprincipled vagabonds, the outcasts of then* native 
country, and the scourge of that of their adoption. The 
gazettes, over which they had obtained a fatal influence, were 
filled with the most bitter invectives, nor did they scruple, un- 
blushingly, to give the most upright and dignified statesmen of 
our country, the appellation of Traitor and Tyrant. Truth, 
however, in all its brilliancy, burst forth, and calumny was 
dumb. The name of Washington appeared without blemish. 
Specks in his character, if any such did ever exist, were no 
longer perceptible to mortal eyes, and by the universal consent 
of mankind, it is acknowledged, that, as far as the frailty of 
human nature will admit, his character has reached the pin- 
nacle of perfection. To the Hero then, at once the boast and 
ornament of his country, to the immortal Washington, the 
charge of ingratitude is not applicable. Will not the liberal 
conduct of Congress towards the Baron Steuben,* Kosciusko, 

* When Baron Steuben's case was first mentioned in Congress, and 
reference made to the important services which he had rendered to the 
United States, the compliment was paid him, to inquire in what mode 
the sense of his good conduct could be most satisfactorily acknowledged. 
" By the grant of a specific sum in cash," was his ready reply. This circum- 
stance bein^ communicated to General Washington, he, without hesi- 
tation, resolved to oppose the measure. " I am so well apprized," he 
said, " of the generous nature and liberal disposition of this excellent 
man, whose feelings are never so much hurt as when he witnesses dis* 



224 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

and General La Fayette, do away the deijrading imputation*? 
"Will not the expression of the most exalted sense entertained 
of the services rendered to their coin.try, by the und»^;viating 
good conduct oi Jefferson and of Aloms^ prove the truth of my 
po.-irioii? Will tiot the eulogies pronouucedtliroujjjhout the Union 
on ilie <rood and great, the Fi-trwts and Heroes of the llevo- 
lutio'i, coiifil'm itt Does not the celebration at New-Orleans, 
of the Victory of the Eighth of January, give further evidence of 
it. And, finally, will not the late proceedings in Congress, by 
which the pressure of misery and absolute want is removed 
from the veteran's habitation, and the bliss insured to him of 
passing the residue of his life in peace and comfort, give ample 
testimony of a sensibility that is above praise. Is it not to be 
considered as a noble and generous effort to do partial justice, 
where it is impracticable to give it full indulgence ; and is it 
not an unquestionable truth, tha? the imputation of ingratitude 
towards men who have served with honour and fidelity, is not 
attributable to America. 



LAUDABLE INSTANCE OF INDEPENDENT 

SPIRIT. 

A friend of mine (Judge Desaussure) travelling some little 
time since in the interior country, lost his way, but was speedily 
put into the right road by an aged countryman, of tall, athletic 
size, but very prepossessing appearance. He bore the cha- 

tresses which he cannot relieve, that lam convinced his discretion would 
never be controlled by prudence, nor proportioned to his means, and 
thatyuur bounty, speedily expended, would leave him more than ever 
the victim of poverty and distress. Essentially to serve the Baron, it ii 
necessary to ?rant him an annuity, which he may use or abuse at plea* 
sure. Inconsiderate expenditure may then subject him to temporary in- 
convenience and distress. But with every returning year, fresh supplies 
would remove difficulty, and his hospitality and kind-heartedness allow 
no diminution." 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 2*25 

racteristic marks of an old soldier, and on my friend's saying, 
" I presume that you have served," promptly replied, " Yes, 
sir. I was attached to the third Continental Regiment of 
South-Carolina, and was twice wounded in the service ;** 
shewing two deep scars, the one on his arm, the other on his 
head. " I had an uncle in that regiment," said my friend, 
" who fell when the attempt was made to storm the British 
Lines at Savannah." The name being mentioned, he imme- 
diately replied, " I knew him well, sir ; and fought in the next 
company when he was shot." " Do you enjoy a pension from 
your country," was now asked. " I do, sir, and have done so 
for the last two years." " Why did you not apply sooner for 
it." "Because," he replied, raising up his tall form and 
stretching out his brawny arms, now, however, shrinking with 
age, " while these arms could support my family by their 
labour, I would not ask my country for help. After attaining 
my seventieth year, I found that I was growing feeble, made 
my application for assistance and succeeded, and now grate- 
fully enjoy the bounty bestowed upon me." 



LETTER FROM COOPER. 

I have noticed in my First Series of Anecdotes, my acci- 
dental meeting at Philadelphia with Cooper, of the First 'i'roop 
of Legionary Cavalry, and the high degree of satisfaction that 
followed an interview with a soldier of such distinguished merit, 
after a separation of upwards of thirty years. I liad then to 
mention his zeal in the cause of his countiy, his sagacity in 
gaining intelligence, his industry when in pursuit of honour, 
and intrepidity in action as often as brought into contact with 
the enemy. Such distinguished qualifications couid not but 
excite my highest admiration and applause; but in a most in- 
teresting and affectionate letter just received from him, he has 



2'26 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

displayed a trait of character still more honourable to him, aud 
more decidedly grateful to me. To give it in any other words 
than his own, would detract from its merits. He writes as 
follows^: — " 1 had been separated, with Captain Armstrong 
and about fifteen Dragoons, from the rest of our Regiment, 
and had entered the British camp. In the interim, passing 
along the line of tents and seeing two horses with officers' port- 
manteaus fastened on them, he sent me back with orders to 
bring them off, but tliinkmg, as I presume, that it had too 
much the appearance of plundering, he sent a dragoon to me 
to forbid their removal. Being now left to myself, and no 
enemy nearer than the Brick-House, where the battle was 
still raging, I deliberately rode along, inspecting their camp, 
when the thought struck me to set it on fire, believing that 
when the British saw it in a blaze, it would hasten their sur- 
render, w hich I considered as inevitable. The wind was 
favourable to my purpose. To complete what I thought of so 
much importance, 1 dismounted from my horse, seized a brand 
of fire, and entered a tent. The first object that met my eyes 
was a very sick soldier, pale and emaciated, laying on his 
straw, while at the side of his homely bed, sat an interesting 
looking female, the picture of despair. We exchanged looks, 
but spoke not. The tears chasing each other down her cheeks, 
were forcibly eloquent, and gave strong indication of the tu- 
multuous feehngs that agitated her heart. The appeal was 
sufficient. He must have been more than brute who could 
at such a moment have given increase to her afflictions. I 
threw the brand from me and rode off. To a sick 
soldier and a woman's tears, the British were indebted 
for the safety of their camp ; and happy am I, that my inten- 
tions were frustrated, for their camp, without doubt, contained 
many sick and helpless bein^.-; incapable of shifting for them- 
selves, who must have perished ; whilst I feel conviction that 
cruelty will not swell the catalogue of crimes that may be 
registered against me." 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 227 



GENERAL GREENE. 

It is always grateful to me to relate whatever does honour 
to Gt i.crai Gi iciie. ** On the morning of the action at Eutaw, 
(says Cooper in his letter to me alluded to above) the firing 
between Lee's Infantry and a British party, brought General 
Greene to the front to inquire the cause. The General was 
so n^ar ine thai our boots were actually in contact, when an 
aid-de-c-imp galiopmg up, exclaimed, * General Greene, there 
is a isirge body of the enemy in your rear.' The General, 
without turning his head, prompiy replied, ' Ride up to them, 
sir, and tell them that if they do ijot immediately surrender, I 
shall be under the necessity of cutting them to pieces with the 
horse.' The order was obeyed, and the enemy surrendered. 
I had been long accustomed to see men cool and collected in 
battle. But 1 shall never forget the calmness and appearance 
of unconcern with which the General gave that order.' " 



PRISONERS CONFINED IN THE BRITISH PRISON- 
SHIPS. 

It is a very happy trait in the human character, tjiat pro- 
portioned to the pressure of adverse fortune, men's energies 
are frequently increased, and constancy sustained with a cou- 
rage invincible. Conversing with my friend Chancellor De- 
saussure, on this subject he said to me, " I had ample proof 
of this when in confinement on board a British prison-ship. 
Every species of insult was offered to us, when we were 
marched down from the main-guard to the place of our con- 
finement. We were hooted at, hissed, reviled, and ultimately 
pelted >vith every offensive kind of trash. Nor did we expe- 



228 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

rience any diminution of ijijurious treatment, when fixed in 
our new quarters. Yet, not a symptom of despondency was 
visible in any countenance. A cairn and dignified submission 
loan unavoidable evil, marked our entire conduct. To solicit 
atteniion from men who were strangers to the mild dictates of 
humanity, we well knew would be useless, and no appeal was 
ever made. When the more compassionate tenderness of the 
female heart led them to visit our dreary abodes, we received 
consolation from their attentions, and from the cheering ex- 
pression of their looks, felt a revival of courage that fortified 
our hopes and bid defiance to the most envenomed shafts of 
tyranny and oppression. We were even sportive in our amuse- 
ments, and by a variety of contrivances dispelled that ennuis 
which must otherwise have proved oppressively irksome, and 
caused our time to hang with great and insupportable weight 
upon our hands. We feasted luxuriously on the most simple 
food. Cheerfulness was our sauce and our stimulant to appe- 
tite. Our spirits were exalted without liquor. The cup of 
cherished hope passed from lip to lip, and the glow of becoming 
mirth and hilarity never knew abatement. In the conscious- 
ness of serving our country with fidelity, we felt all the bliss of 
peace of mind, and if ever a sensation of sorrow was felt, it 
was when we heard of the dereliction of duty by some friend 
or person we wished to think well of ; who, cajoled by the de- 
lusive promises of the enemy, or natural imbecility of their 
minds and temperament, had been induced to seek their pro- 
tection. The establishment of an Ugly Club on board, was a 
source of perpetual amusement. For although there were 
some among us who did not quarrel with nature for giving us 
plain countenances, and who were not ignorant of their imper- 
fections on the score of beauty ; yet there were others who, 
without a single feature that could be deemed attractive, or a 
glance of intelligence or smile of fascination, lost their tempers, 
and were beyond measure fretful and peevish, especially v/hen 
chosen to fill the high ofl^ices in the Society. But ill-humour 



REVOLUTIOiNARY ANECDOTES. 229 

was productive of no advantage to him who indulged it, and 
it was only necessary for a man to dispute the judgment and 
want of taste in his companions, and to attempt to stop the 
current of opinion, to have his claims to the perfection of 
ugliness fixed on him for life." The same happy disposition 
prevailed among the exiles to St. Augustine. Patience and 
equanimity were the order of the day, and innocent mirth 
occasioned the languor of confinement to be submitted to with 
scarcely a murmur, or expression of dissatisfaction. Two 
gentlemen, staunch whigs in principle, kept up a regular cor- 
respondence with each other ; the one was an exile at St. Au- 
gustine, the other an inmate of the narrower limits of the Pro- 
vost in Charleston. Some of the banished gentlemen, sus- 
pecting that the former was rather poetical in his prose — in 
other words, that he sometimes rather brightened the colouring 
of the information which he received from his city friend, 
resolved to put it to the test, and prevailed on Mr. Brown, the 
Commissary of Prisoners, who was about to deliver letters at 
roll-call, which had just arrived from Charleston, to place 
among them one directed to the suspected embellisher. It 

contained these words, *' Yahoo — Yahoo — Yahoo, 

!" The letter was no sooner lookt;d into, than bursting 



intv) an exclamation of rapturous delight, he who received it, 
kissed it with ardour, and handing it to his next neighbour, 
exclaimed — " read it, and rejoice, the day is our own ; victory 
crowns our efforts, and freedom and independence are at 
hand." *' I see nothing," said the gentleman who held the 
letter in his hand, " but an uncouth name thrice repeated, and 
followed by three scratches preceding a point of admiration." 
" The very cause of my joy," said the exulting patriot. You 
have seen the secret cypher agreed upon between my friend 
and myself, to communicate intelligence. Yahoo, stands for 
Cornwallis, and the three scratches gives positive assurance 
that he is taken." Strange to tell, this fanciful dream — this 

20 



230 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

vague conjecture proved true. The very next vessel from 
Charleston brought intelligence, that propitious fortune, for- 
saking the standard of the victor of the South, that the 
renowned Lord Cornwallis, had surrendered his army to 
General Washington at Yorktown. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 231 



Brief Account of the Celebration of the Victory at New- 
Orleans^ obtained over the invading Army of Great- Britain^ 
January Sth, 1815. 

From the very nature of my work, and the terms in which I 
have invariably expressed myself, the gratification must be 
great to notice every occurrence which does honour to my 
countr3\ It cannot, therefore, excite surprise, that the late 
celebration of the Victory at New-Orleans, achieved on the 
8th of January, 1815, should be considered by me as particu- 
larly worthy of attention. General Jackson, the hero to whom 
it was intended to do honour, has been regarded by me as a 
bright luminary from the earliest period of his life. I have 
often dwelt with pride on the recollection of the manly firmness 
with which he refused to officiate in the degrading capacity in 
which the assumed superiority of an insolent British officer 
would have placed him. I have greeted his first c^ppearar.ce 
on the field of battle, and his exemplary intrepidity when 
there, as a fair and encouraging pledge of that perfect mili- 
tary skill which caused him, on every subsequent rencontre 
with the enemy, to possess himself of the wreath of victoiy, 
and to claim all the applause that a grateful nation could be- 
stow. The account which follows, is far better calculated to 
do him honour, than any thing that can come from my pen. 
It was furnished me by an officer, high in'his esteem, and 
possessing his most unlimited confidence — ^one who served 
under his command during the greater part of the war, and 
who has often assured me, that exalted as his reputation for 
gallantry and military prowess, it gave not a higher claim to 
celebrity, than the talents and virtues which distinguished his 
entire conduct in private life. The particulars relative to the 
celebration, are copied from a note on the subjoct, with which 
he furnished me. He was present during the celebration of 



232 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

this glorious national fete; and as a soldier and gentleman, 1 
am confident that his statement may be deemed correct in 
every particular. 

The late celebration of the Battle of the Eighth of January, 
at New-Orleans, is -without a parallel in the history of our 
country. Those who witnessed La Fayette's reception at the 
same place, declare, that though extremely splendid^ it was not 
near so imposmg. Seventy-five thousand persons were present, 
while it will be recollected, that the permanent population of 
New-Orleans does not exceed forty-five thousand. What 
greatly added to the gaiety of the scene, and taste and splen- 
dour of the celebration, was, that the French understand more 
perfectly than any other people, how to arrange and give effect 
to these exhibitions. There were circumstances which took 
place on the occasion, that never before occurred in the world. 
A fleet of twenty-four steam-boats, almost all of the largest 
class, beautifully decorated, ascended the father of rivers, firing 
minute guns, crowded with citizens splendidly and tastefully 
dressed, and proceeded to a point three miles above the city ; 
the place where, by arrangements previously made, Jackson 
came on board one of them, and from thence was conducted 
down the Mississippi to the battle-ground. On reaching the 
field of battle, addresses were delivered to Jackson in French 
and English, to which he made appropriate answers. The 
shouts of the people when he landed, greatly exceeded any 
thing which could have been supposed even in imagination. It 
was heard many miles off, and was the grandest and most 
sublime sound that ever struck my ears ; for the effect of the 
human voice when combined to a great extent, operates on the 
mind in a most powerful manner. Among other things which 
rendered this wonderful celebration peculiarly interesting, was 
the circumstance that New-Orleans every year collects and 
concentrates citizens from every part of the world, and on this 
occasion, every natien in Europe was actuallt/ represented, 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 233 

and almost every State in the Union, officially so. Several 
militar)' corps also, were present from adjoining States. No 
partv feeling dared to show itself; every man, woman and 
youth vied with each other in doing honour to the hero of two 
wars, the conqueror of Wellington's veterans, the guest of the 
^tate of Louisiana. The nations of the old world were taught 
a useful lesson, and could not hut allow (in contradiction to 
their cherished sentiment) that republics were not always de- 
ficient in gratitude to their benefactors. During the week that 
Jackson remained at New-Orleans, his conduct and deport- 
ment was most exemplar}-. In Roman dignity, a ^Vashing- 
ton — in colloquial eloquence, a Jefferson. His manners based 
upon pure Revolutionary simphcity, every thing flowed from 
the heart and went directly to it. 

The sj>eech which follows, irives in a few words the true 
character of Jackson, better than any thinof I have heretofore 
seen in print, which I trust, will appear an ample apology for 
giving it publicity. 

While the company were assembled at the festive board, the 
following toast having been given — 

''^Colonel Arthur P. Hayne — The compatriot of Jackson — 
we tender him our hearty welcome to the land be so gallantly 
defended," 

Colonel Hayne rose and spoke as follows : — 

" Mr. President — Gratitude is not eloquent. All I can say 
on this joyful occasion is, I thank you — most cordially thank 
you, for the flatteringf sentiment with which you have honoured 
me. Sir, if there be any portion of my life to which I recur 
with peculiar delight, it is that period of it, when all the pow- 
ers of my mind and body were honestly and faithfully devoted 
to the safety and protection of this gallant city. I can truly 
say, that throughout that brilliant and arduous campaign, I 
endeavoured to the best of my humble abilities, to discharge 

20* 



234 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDTOES. 

my duty. What a godlike spectacle was exhibited to the 
world during the New-Orleans campaign ! It was there that 
the brave yeomanry of the West, glowing with the holy flame 
of Liberty and Patriotism, rose in their might, and conquered 
the veteran troops of Wellington, and then was illustrated in 
sober truth, the sentiment of the Poet, when he exclaimed — 

''On valour's side the odds of combat lie, 
The brave live glorious, or lamented die ; 
The wretch that trembles in the field of fame, 
Meets death, and worse than death — eternal shame." 

" Fellow-Soldiers, you all well remember on that trying 
occasion, that with one universal burst of patriotic ardour, the 
cry every where was — l^o Arms — To Arms — your motto, 
* Victory or DeathJ' The only contention among you was, who 
should be foremost in the race of glory, who most faithfully 
perform his duty to his country. And you can all bear witness 
to the truth of my assertion when I say, that in patriotic zeal 
and enthusiasm, in gallant bearing, and daring courage, the 
City of New-Orleans covered herself with immortal glory. 

*' Mr. President — It cannot be wrong for old soldiers as- 
sembled as we are around the festive board, after a separation 
of thirteen long years, to dwell upon the recollections of 
former times, even at the expense of saying something of our 
own actions. Bear with me then, while I feebly endeavour 
to place before you, one of the most happy illustrations of the 
moral sublime which was ever exhibited. You all remember, j 
fellow-soldiers, when the Commander-in-chief was informed 
by the lamented Tatum, a veteran soldier of '76, that the 
enemy, in great force, had effected a landing. Then was it 
that the character of Andrew Jackson shone forth with sur- 
passing brightness. Never, while I live, shall I forget his 
conduct in that perilous crisis, and truly can I say, that next to 
our God, we owe every thing to his skill and wisdom. When 
iie was told that tbe,f©neray were at your door — had reached 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 235 

the margin of yonder noble river — I ask the question — em- 
phutically ask it — was he not then surrounded by evei*y diffi- 
CLiJty that could possibly encompass the situation of a gallant 
soldier. Yet, gentlemen, did we not see him at that awful 
crisis, calm and self-collected — fortitude and magnanimity 
beaming in his countenance. Yes, General, in your venerable 
person, by a delightful association of ideas, ivc were permitted 
by the God of the Quick and of the Dead, to behold once 
again on earth, our own immortal Washington. And now 
the hour of battle is at hand, and we behold our Jackson 
placing himself at the head of only two thousand men, of 
whom not more than sixteen hundred were actually engaged, 
meeting a brave enemy, amounting in number to five thousand, 
and leading our eagles to victory and glory. The battle of 
the twenty-third of December, was the saving of this city. It 
was the great link in the chain of cause and eftect, which pro- 
duced the glories of the ' Eighth of January,' the day you now 
so nobly celebrate, brave citizens of Louisiana — a day, which 
records a mighty victory, in some respects, unparalleled in the 
history of the world. I must stop, fellow-soldiers, for the 
glories of New-Orleans are a theme too transporting for me. 

"Mr. President -I now beg leave to give a toast, and in 
so doing, to pay a small tribute of respect to departed worth — 
to brave and gallant friends, who bared their bosoms to the 
foe in the hour of trial and danger, and who, in the day of 
battle, were every where that duty and danger called. 

" The memories of Humphrey, Duncan, Read, and Kemper^. 
" Come expressive silence, muse their praise." 



236 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 



The Monody which follows, was written very shortly aftep 
the commencement of the war of the Revohition, hy a young 
Irish student named Dunn, then attached to the Glasgow Col- 
lei^e. The name of the friend so pathetically lama:ited, was 
(to the hest of my recollection) Rogers, a native of Maryland, 
who, hastening homewards to assis-t in defending the liberties 
of his country, unhappily perished at sea. 



PAULUS— A MONODY. 

Upon a sea-girt rock Eugenius stood, 

And viewed with stedfast eyes the rolling flood ; 

And still, in every passing wave 

He songht his Paulus' watery grave, 

And fancy oft the corse descry'd, 

Wound in its billowy shroud, and floating with the tide. 

But far on wide Atlantic's dreary coast, 

Beneath a Promontory's shade, 

The youth by pious hands is laid, 

And vainly dost thou weep thy Paulus lost, 

To distant shores and more inclement skies, 

The faithless vessel yielded up her prize. 

And are you then at rest, 

The sport no longer of the watery waste, 

An unprotected corse? 

The swain is blest. 

Who snatch'd thee from the surge's force. 

And hallow'd is the glebe that holds thy clay. 

And blest the pious youth that sung thy funeral lay. 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 237 

But ah ! thy virtues could he tell, 

Thy firm integrity above a price ; 

Thy warm devotion to the public weal ; 

Thy ardent friendship — honour nice. 

Courage with pity still allied, 

And modesty that like a veil did all thy virtues hide. 

Could he thy innocence declare, 

A grace so rare, 

When linked with knowledge, that it shone 

Complete in thee alone. 

Could he thy love of liberal arts proclaim, 

Still guided to the noblest end, 

Thy country's freedom to defend, 

Not to achieve an empty name. 

For this thou oft hast conn'd th' historic page — 

For this the jurist's knotty lore. 

From Alfred's down to William's age. 

Increasing still thy copious store, 

A future gift for the Atlantic's shore. 

Thine was the task her sacred rights to guard. 
Her wide-spread States with friendly links to bind; 
The happiness of millions thy reward — 
Thy monument in every patriot mind. 

Soon as the tyrant spoke the word 

Be slaves ! or dread the exterminating sword, 

Britaimia's hated isles you fled, 

And mourn'd her antient spirit dead ; 

Your native woods you sought. 

With Spartan virtue fraught; 

That virtue which can fate defy, 

J^reparetl to nebly live or bravely rfj^e. 



238 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

Behold the wish'd for shore, 
The tempest howls and Pauliis is no more; 
Whilst many a mercenary host, 
Securely glides along the hapless coast- 
While safe the German transport bends its sails 
And Caledonia's slaves arrive with prosperous gales — 

Yet shall thy country's liberties survive- 
Yet shall she triumph o'er her ruthless foe. 
And Paulus yet shall live, 
Whilst tyrants sink beneath th' avenging blow; 
Short is the gloomy Despot's sway. 
But freedom's radiant form shall never know decay, 

Immortal Youth farewell, — thy sorrowing friend 
This last sad tribute to thy virtues pays. 
Too true a mourner justly to commend, 
And rich in reverence, though but poor in praise, 
Yet shall Columbia oft thy worth rehearse, 
When patriot virtue claims her poet's song, 
Thy sorrowing friends repeat the solemn verse, 
Tliy native woods the solemn notes prolong. 

DUNN. 



RD - 1"? 



# 



REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 239 



CONCLUSION. 

I am not a stranger to the ironical compliment paid me by 
a good-natured friend, on the pubhcatio!i of my First Series of 
Revolutionary Anecdotes, to wit, " that I had given to the 
world a pleasing and highly interesting Jest Booky This was, 
undoubteply owing to the mtroduction of one or two eigram- 
matic effusions,* giving a faithful portrait of the talents and 
character of the British King, and the repartee of a witty lady 
to General Clinton, desiring the musicians at a ball to play, 
*' Britons Stril:e Home.'''' My intention always has been to 
give a faithful account of every circumstance relating to the 
war, and I freely confess, that I saw no impropriety, while I 
demonstrated how effectually we were checking the arrogance 
and foiling the intemperate proceedings of our enemies on one 
side of the Atlantic, io show how they were laughed at and 
ridiculed even at the fountain head of government on the other. 
A disposition to merriment is inherent in my nature, it was 
born with me, and I trust, that while life remains, I shall 
never be abandoned by it. My favourable maxim is, 

" With mirth and laughter let old wrinkles come." 

While, therefore, I plead guilty to the charge, and confess my 
crime, I trust I may still be allowed, from the Gazettes of our 
foe to shew how idle and farcical the attempts to subjugate 
America were considered in England, and with what keen and 
pointed satire the administration were assailed, even at the 
seat of government. I will, in mercy, however, add two short 
pieces only^ lest I cause the bile of my friend to overflow, and 
occasion him 

" To creep into a jaundice by being peevish." 
* Vide pp. 412-13. 



240 REVOLUTIONARY ANECDOTES. 

The Cerberus Frigate being selected at the commencement 
of the Revolutionary war, to convey to Boston the British 
Generals appointed to command, the following epigram ap- 
peared in a morning paper : — 

" Behold the Cerberus the Atlantic plough, 
Her precious cargo — Burgoyne, Clinton, Howe. 
Bow, wow, wow." 



HEADS. 

Tune — " Detry Down. 

Ye wrong heads, and strong heads, attend to my strains, 

Ye dear heads, and queer heads, and heads without brains ; 

Ye thick skulls and quick skulls, and heads great and small, 

And ye heads that aspire to be heads over all. 

Enough might be said, durst I venture my rhymes. 

Of crowned heads, and round heads, of these modern times; 

This slippery path let me cautiously tread. 

The Neck else will answer, perhaps tor the Head. 

The Heads of the Church, and the Heads of the State, 

Have taught much, and wrote much, too much to repeat ; 

On the neck of corruption, uplifted, 'tis said, 

Some rulers, alas, are too high by the head. 

Ye schemers and dreamers of politic things. 

Projecting the downfall of Kingdoms and Kings, 

Can your wisdom declare, how the body is fed. 

When the members rebel, and wage war with the head. 

On Britannia's bosom sweet Liberty smiled, 

The parent grew strong while she fostered the child*. 

Ill-treating her offspring, a fever she bred. 

Which contracted her limbs and distracted her head. 

Ye learned State Doctors, your labours are vain, 

Proceeding by bleeding to settle her brain ; 

Much less can your art the lost members restore, 

Amputation must follow— perhaps, something more. 

Pale Goddess of whim, when with cheeks lean or full, 

Thy influence seis^es an Englshman's skull ; 

He blunders, yet wonders his schemes ever fail. 

Though often mistaking the head for the tail. 



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